Russell Brand Again Claims Innocence of Sexual Assault Charges

British comedian, actor, and former radio host Russell Brand appeared in court on February 24, 2026, to answer two new charges of sexual offenses. During the hearing, he filed another official statement, in which he firmly maintains he is innocent of all acts alleged against him. The new indictments include, among others, one charge of rape and a charge of sexual assault. Brand, dressed in a dark suit, arrived at the courthouse in central London, where he was surrounded by journalists and photographers. The prosecution presented an updated catalog of charges, expanding the scope of the investigation with testimonies from additional women. Brand's defense attorneys again emphasized their client's determination to clear his name in court and challenged the credibility of the accusers. The Russell Brand case, which erupted in the autumn of 2023 following the joint publication of a journalistic investigation by several British media outlets, continues to attract immense public attention. Russell Brand gained popularity in the 2000s as a controversial MTV presenter and comedian, known for his provocative style. His film career included roles in productions such as „The Pursuit of Happyness” or „Rock of Ages”. In the last decade, he underwent a significant transformation, distancing himself from the show-business environment and publishing countercultural and political content on his online platforms. The current trial phase is a continuation of earlier proceedings, in which Brand also denied the charges. The court has set further hearing dates, during which witnesses are to be questioned and evidence presented. This case is part of a broader social debate in the UK about abuses in the entertainment industry, which intensified after the #MeToo movement. The Crown Prosecution Service for England and Wales is overseeing the investigation, which now includes over a dozen separate incidents, reported by different women, allegedly occurring at various times and locations. Number of Media Reports in Key Months of the Brand Case: September 2023: 850, October 2023: 520, February 2026: 310 Advocates for victims of sexual violence emphasize the importance of this case for sending a signal about the impunity of public figures. Opponents, however, point to the risk of a witch hunt and the destruction of reputation before a verdict is issued. Brand himself, in several videos published online, has maintained that he is a victim of a coordinated attack by mainstream media, with which he has been in conflict for years. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for several weeks from now, and the trial is expected to last many months.