Russell Brand convicted of rape and sexual assault in London trial

A London jury convicted comedian and actor Russell Brand of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault after a four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court. The verdict covered four of the seven charges he faced; he was acquitted of two rape counts and one count of attempted indecent assault. Brand, 51, is scheduled to be sentenced on Monday, Nov. 9, and the presiding judge indicated a lengthy custodial term is expected.

Metropolitan Police said Brand is also the subject of two additional rape allegations from other women, but he has not been charged in relation to those claims. The force noted that the suspect had previously been interviewed under caution regarding the new allegations.

The convictions related to incidents spanning 2004 to 2009, including a rape in 2009 after a victim visited Brand’s home, a sexual assault in a London bar in 2004, a forced massage request in 2009, and an assault involving a forced kiss at a radio station. All six complainants were granted lifelong anonymity.

During the trial, Brand denied the charges, stating he had never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity. CCTV footage released by the police showed him speaking to officers in December 2023, where he described his past as “very promiscuous” but asserted that any encounters were consensual.

"You've been convicted of a number of offenses including rape," Judge Joel Bennathan said, adding that Brand would be remanded in custody pending sentencing.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police said the verdict reflected the courage of the women who came forward and emphasized that fame does not place anyone above the law.

Brand’s father expressed surprise at the outcome in a brief statement to the BBC.