Comedian and actor Russell Brand has officially been charged with rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault in connection with alleged incidents spanning from 1999 to 2005, according to the Metropolitan Police.
The 49-year-old, who rose to fame through stand-up comedy and later hosted major radio and TV programs, has been at the center of a sprawling investigation following a joint exposé by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches in September 2023. The report featured multiple women alleging serious misconduct by Brand during the height of his entertainment career.
According to police, the charges involve four separate women and include:
- An alleged rape in Bournemouth in 1999.
- An alleged indecent assault in Westminster in 2001.
- An allegation of oral rape and sexual assault in Westminster in 2004.
- Another sexual assault charge in Westminster between 2004 and 2005.
The Metropolitan Police confirmed they have contacted Brand and informed him of the charges. He is expected to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on May 2, 2025. However, he is currently believed to be in the United States. If Brand does not voluntarily return to the UK, prosecutors could initiate extradition proceedings.
In response, the Crown Prosecution Service said it had conducted a thorough review of the evidence and authorized the charges based on the seriousness of the alleged offenses. “We remind everyone that criminal proceedings are active and Mr. Brand is entitled to a fair trial,” said Jaswant Narwal, Chief Crown Prosecutor.
Brand has publicly denied all allegations since they first emerged, insisting that all of his past relationships were “consensual” and describing the accusations as “very, very hurtful.”
Metropolitan Police Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy said the investigation remains ongoing. He encouraged any others affected to come forward, stating: “Specially trained officers are available for support, and anyone with relevant information is urged to contact us.”
The investigation marks a significant legal and reputational turning point for Brand, once one of Britain’s most provocative entertainers. Known for roles in films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek, and for his stint as a BBC radio host, Russell Brand’s once-flourishing career has seen a sharp decline in recent years amid mounting controversy and public scrutiny.
The charges now move the story into a new phase, from allegations to a high-profile criminal trial with global attention.
