British police charge comedian Russell Brand with rape and sexual assault

Comedian Russell Brand has been formally charged by British police with one count of rape, one count of oral rape, one count of indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault. The charges relate to incidents alleged to have occurred between 1999 and 2005 in Bournemouth and central London, following an 18‑month investigation that began with allegations from four women.

Brand, 50, who has consistently denied non‑consensual behavior, is scheduled to appear in court on May 2. The investigation was spurred by a Channel 4 documentary and a Sunday Times exposé aired in September 2023, and continues as authorities encourage others with relevant information to come forward.