LONDON, UK – Comedian and actor Russell Brand has been granted bail and left Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London today, following his first court appearance on charges of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault. The 49-year-old spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address during the brief hearing before Senior District Judge Paul Goldspring.
Brand, who arrived at the court wearing a black denim shirt, sunglasses, and blue jeans, was met by a throng of media. He remained composed and did not respond to questions as he entered and exited the building.
The charges, brought by the Metropolitan Police last month, relate to allegations from four women concerning incidents that allegedly occurred in England between 1999 and 2005. One of the complainants alleges rape in the Bournemouth area in 1999. Another accuses Brand of oral rape and sexual assault in Westminster, London, in 2004, with a further charge of sexual assault relating to the alleged touching of her breasts without consent. The final two charges involve the alleged indecent assault of a woman in 2001, by “grabbing her arm and dragging her towards a male toilet,” and the sexual assault of another woman between 2004 and 2005, involving alleged kissing and grabbing of her breasts and buttocks, both said to have taken place in Westminster.
The allegations first surfaced in a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches program in September 2023. Brand has consistently denied these accusations, stating he has “never engaged in non-consensual activity.” Prior to his court appearance today, Brand posted a video on social media reiterating his denial and stating he welcomed the opportunity to prove his innocence.
During the 12-minute hearing, Judge Goldspring referred the case up to the Crown Court, known as the Old Bailey. Brand was instructed to provide both his US and UK addresses to the court. When asked if he understood his bail conditions, he replied, “Yes.” His next court appearance is scheduled for May 30th.
The women who have made reports are continuing to receive support from specially trained officers, according to Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy. The Metropolitan Police have also stated that their investigation remains open and are urging anyone else affected by the case or with information to come forward.
Brand, who achieved fame as a stand-up comedian and television presenter before embarking on a Hollywood career, has resided in the US in recent years and has not had on-screen film roles since 2022. The legal proceedings in the UK mark a significant development in the ongoing allegations against him.