Popular British comedian Russell Brand has pleaded not guilty. He did so on February 24, 2026. The plea was entered in a London court. He faces two new charges. These include one count of rape. There is also one count of sexual assault. These alleged offenses took place in 2009. Prosecutors state the incidents occurred in London.
Brand appeared at Southwark Crown Court. He spoke from the dock. He confirmed his name. Then he entered his not guilty pleas. He wore an animal-print shirt for the hearing. He also held a copy of the Bible. The court heard these new charges involve two additional women.
Previous Legal Battles
This is not Brand’s first court appearance. He previously denied five earlier charges. These included two counts of rape. They also included one count of indecent assault. Two counts of sexual assault were also on the original indictment. These allegations involved four women. They reportedly happened between 1999 and 2005.
The initial alleged offenses occurred in various locations. These included Bournemouth and Westminster. Prosecutors detailed these earlier claims. One woman alleged rape in Bournemouth in 1999. Another woman claimed indecent assault in 2001. There were also allegations of oral rape and sexual assault in 2004. A fourth woman reported sexual assault between 2004 and 2005.
Court Proceedings and Trial
A trial date is set for the original charges. It is scheduled for June 2026. This trial is expected to last several weeks. Brand appeared via video link from Florida in January 2026. He has been granted conditional bail. The court continues to manage the case. Further hearings are scheduled.
Background of Allegations
The allegations first surfaced in September 2023. This followed a joint investigation. Major news outlets published the report. Several women came forward with accusations. These included rape and sexual abuse. Brand has consistently denied all claims. He stated that all his relationships were consensual. He shared this in a video online. He welcomes the chance to defend himself.
The BBC also reviewed Brand’s past conduct. This followed concerns raised by staff. Internal investigations were launched by Channel 4 and other companies.
Ongoing Legal News
Russell Brand faces serious legal scrutiny. The case continues to develop. New charges have expanded the timeline. This news is unfolding in London. The legal process is complex. It involves multiple alleged victims and dates. Brand maintains his innocence. He will contest the charges in court. This ongoing legal situation remains a significant news story.
