Russell Brand gives evidence in rape and sexual assault trial

As of 10.15am, shortly after the prosecution concluded its case, Brand took to the stand to give evidence. Picture: PA

The defence has began presenting its case inRussell Brand’s trialat Southwark crown court this morning, where he faces allegations of rape and sexual assault against six women.

The prosecution’s case has drawn to a close after nearly two weeks of evidence, with the jury to hear from the defence today.

In yesterday’s hearing, the jury was told by the judge, Mr Justice Bennathan, that the indecent assault charge against Brand has been amended to attempted indecent assault. 

It relates to an allegation that Brand grabbed a female MTV worker by the arm and tried to drag her into a toilet. 

Bennathan told jurors he had reached the conclusion that there was insufficient evidence to support the charge of indecent assault.

The court also heard Brand was interviewed by police on four occasions — in November and December 2023, January 2024 and July 2025. 

Brand’s pre-prepared statement to police in November 2023 was read out in court by the prosecutor, Riel Karmy-Jones.

In it, he said: “As I have repeatedly stated publicly and written about extensively, I led a very promiscuous life in the past, which I have spent years openly denouncing.

“I have never engaged in non-consensual sexual activity.”

Brand, 51, has been charged with three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of attempted indecent assault, in allegations dating between 1999 and 2009. 

He has pleaded not guilty to all the charges.

As of 10.15am, shortly after the prosecution concluded its case, Brand took to the stand to give evidence.

His barrister, Ian Winter, began by going through the indictment and asking him if he committed the offences, to which he replied “no” to each.

The trial continues.

- The Guardian