Russell Brand Pleads Not Guilty To New Rape, Sexual Assault Charges

Variety

by K.J. Yossman

February 24, 2026

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Russell Brand has once again pleaded not guilty to new charges of rape and sexual assault in London. The actor and former TV host appeared at Southwark Crown Court, where he faced allegations related to two women from 2009. This marks his third set of legal proceedings involving similar accusations, with previous cases dating back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, which also resulted in not-guilty pleas. A trial for the original charges is scheduled for June, but a hearing next month will determine if these new allegations will be combined into the same trial. Brand’s legal team has requested additional time to address the charges. The case has drawn significant attention due to Brand’s high-profile career and the ongoing #MeToo movement, which has brought scrutiny to historical allegations against public figures. The allegations were detailed in a 2023 joint investigation by *The Sunday Times* and Channel 4, which reported that five women accused him of rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse during the early 2010s. Brand has consistently denied the claims, calling them “absolutely refuted” in a YouTube video. His appearances in court have been brief, with no further statements made during proceedings. Brand’s legal troubles come at a pivotal time in his career. Once a prominent comedian and actor known for films like *Forgetting Sarah Marshall* and *Get Him to the Greek*, he later rebranded himself as an anti-establishment spiritual figure with a large online following. However, these allegations have cast doubt over his public image and could further damage his professional reputation if the legal process escalates. The case highlights the ongoing tension between celebrity status and accountability for past actions, making it a significant story in entertainment news. The outcome of this case will not only impact Brand’s personal and professional life but also serve as a marker in the broader conversation around sexual assault allegations against public figures. As the legal proceedings unfold,Brand

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Originally published on Variety on 2/24/2026