Actor and comedian Russell Brand has pleaded not guilty to two new charges of rape and sexual assault. The plea was entered at Southwark Crown Court in London, U.K. The alleged offences involving two women are said to have occurred in 2009 in the capital city. Brand had previously pleaded not guilty to charges related to incidents between 1999 and 2005.
Brand, known for his roles in films like ‘Forgetting Sarah Marshall’ and ‘Get Him To The Greek,’ has faced multiple court appearances. He was granted bail on previous occasions and is scheduled for a trial in June for the original charges. A hearing next month will determine if the new allegations will be added to the trial. Brand’s lawyer has requested more time to address the charges.
In 2023, a joint investigation by The Sunday Times and Channel 4 revealed accusations of “rape, sexual assaults, and emotional abuse” by five women against Brand in the early 2010s. Brand, who has transitioned from comedy to a spiritual figure, has denied these allegations. During his recent court appearance, he confirmed his name and plea while wearing a leopard print shirt and holding a bible.
