Actor and comedian Russell Brand guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault following a high-profile trial in London. The verdict, delivered after four weeks of proceedings, also saw Brand acquitted of two separate rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault.
Brand, who rose to international fame through roles in films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek, was once a dominant figure in British comedy. In recent years, he transitioned away from mainstream entertainment, establishing himself as a prominent conservative YouTuber and podcaster.
The legal proceedings followed a 2023 Channel 4 documentary, Russell Brand: In Plain Sight, which brought forward multiple allegations regarding his conduct toward women. The subsequent investigation by the Metropolitan Police involved reviewing thousands of documents and gathering testimony from more than 100 witnesses.
According to the Metropolitan Police, the offenses occurred between 2004 and 2009. The incidents took place across various locations, including a radio station, a film set, and Brand’s private residence. Throughout the trial, Brand maintained his innocence, though the jury ultimately found sufficient evidence to convict on four of the charges.
Sentencing is scheduled for Monday, November 9. Under U.K. law, a rape conviction can carry a sentence of up to 19 years or even life imprisonment, depending on the severity, while sexual assault carries a maximum penalty of 10 years.