Russell Brand and Katy Perry's marriage ends amid abuse allegations and recent conviction

Russell Brand and Katy Perry married in October 2010 in a Hindu ceremony in India, but the union lasted less than a year. In early 2011, Brand texted Perry that their marriage was over, a message she received shortly before a scheduled concert. Perry performed despite the news, later describing the breakup as painful and indicative of a controlling dynamic.

Brand, who was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault, received a 10½-year prison sentence. The conviction has prompted renewed scrutiny of his relationship with Perry, including footage from a 2010 Vanity Fair Oscars Party that suggested an uncomfortable power imbalance.

Perry, who has since been reported to be in a relationship with former Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, has spoken publicly about the marriage. She said Brand struggled with her rising fame and pressured her to start a family before she felt ready, describing his behavior as “controlling.” In a later interview, Brand acknowledged that his insecurity and desire to marry early placed undue pressure on Perry.

The couple’s divorce was finalized in July 2012 after a settlement reached earlier that year. Perry has not been called as a witness in the investigation that led to Brand’s conviction, and the Crown Prosecution Service confirmed she was not asked for a statement.