Russell Brand Pleads Not Guilty to New Rape and Sexual Assault Charges
British comedian and actor Russell Brand appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, to face two new criminal charges. The entertainer entered the courtroom wearing distinctive attire including sunglasses, a white fedora, and an animal-print top unbuttoned to reveal a crucifix, while carrying a Bible adorned with Post-It notes.
Latest Charges and Court Proceedings
Brand pleaded not guilty to one additional count of rape and one count of sexual assault during the hearing. These latest allegations involve two separate women and are alleged to have occurred in London during 2009. This brings the total number of charges against Brand to five, including two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault from previous allegations dating between 1999 and 2005 involving four different women.
When questioned by Sky News reporters about his emotional state while entering the courthouse, Brand responded with a single word: "Blessed." According to reports from the Telegraph, court officials confiscated Brand's Bible prior to the hearing's commencement, preventing him from reading it during the proceedings.
Trial Schedule and Legal Strategy
The court has scheduled Brand's trial to begin on June 3, 2026, with proceedings expected to last approximately four to five weeks. A preliminary hearing will be conducted next month to determine whether the new allegations should be combined with the existing case. Brand's legal representative has indicated that the defendant requires additional time to address the latest charges properly.
Brand has consistently denied all criminal wrongdoing throughout the investigation and legal process. In previous statements, he has maintained that "all his relationships were absolutely always consensual." The initial charges emerged following an extensive investigation by Channel 4 and The Sunday Times, during which multiple women came forward with allegations against the comedian.
Background of Allegations
The specific allegations against Brand include disturbing accounts from multiple accusers:
- Alleged rape of a woman in a hotel room during a Labour Party conference in Bournemouth
- Alleged sexual assault of a television staff member, including dragging her into a men's bathroom
- Alleged groping of a radio station employee's breasts and buttocks after pushing her against a wall
- Alleged attempt to drag another woman into a men's washroom, resulting in the indecent assault charge
The Times reported that several accusers felt compelled to speak out against Brand due to his increasing prominence as an online wellness influencer. Brand, who is married to Laura Gallacher and has two daughters, continues to maintain his innocence against all allegations. The case has drawn significant media attention and public interest as it progresses through the British legal system.
