British authorities have added two fresh counts of rape and sexual assault to the already mounting legal case against comedian Russell Brand.
New Charges
The U.K. Crown Prosecution Service announced that Brand now faces one count of rape and one count of sexual assault linked to two additional women. The alleged offenses occurred in 2009, according to the CPS. Brand, 50, has not yet responded to NBC News’ request for comment.
In a video posted on X, Brand addressed the public: “I pray Lord, anyone that I’ve harmed or hurt in my years of mindlessness and sin would be healed, Lord,” he said. “And I pray, Lord, for the absolute truth of who I am to be abundantly revealed.”
Prior Charges and Investigation
Brand was first charged in April with two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault. Those charges stem from an 18-month investigation triggered when four women alleged they had been assaulted by the comedian.
Prosecutors said the alleged offenses took place between 1999 and 2005. One was in the English seaside town of Bournemouth and the other three in London. Brand pleaded not guilty to those charges in a London court earlier this year.
Court Dates and Pleas
Brand is scheduled to appear again in court on Jan. 20 to address the two new charges. A trial has also been set for June of next year, expected to last four to five weeks.
The British comedian and actor was charged with two counts of rape, indecent assault and two counts of sexual assault. He has consistently maintained his innocence, stating that he has never engaged in non-consensual activity.
Brand’s Public Statements
When the first batch of charges was announced, Brand welcomed the opportunity to prove his innocence. “I was a fool before I lived in the light of the Lord,” he said in a social media video. “I was a drug addict, a sex addict and an imbecile. But what I never was a rapist. I’ve never engaged in nonconsensual activity. I pray that you can see that by looking in my eyes.”
Background and Media Presence
The “Get Him To The Greek” actor, known for risqué stand-up routines, has struggled with drugs and alcohol. He withdrew from mainstream media in recent years but built a large online following with videos that mix wellness, conspiracy theories and religious discussion.
The Associated Press does not name victims of alleged sexual violence, and British law protects their identity from the media for life.
Key Takeaways
- Russell Brand faces new rape and sexual assault charges linked to incidents in 2009.
- He had already been charged in April with four counts of rape and sexual assault and one indecent assault.
- Brand’s next court appearance is set for Jan. 20, with a trial scheduled for June.
The case continues to unfold as Brand maintains his innocence while the Crown Prosecution Service presents its evidence. The legal proceedings are expected to provide further clarity on the allegations that have surrounded the comedian for years.
