A woman who alleges that Russell Brand raped her in a hotel room has told jurors that the comedian changed from a "camp, friendly and effeminate" man to a "monster‑like" figure before the alleged assault. The 51‑year‑old actor and comedian faces seven charges – three counts of rape, three of sexual assault and one of indecent assault – stemming from claims made by six female complainants over a decade from 1999 to 2009. Brand denies all charges and has pleaded not guilty.
During the trial, the complainant described how she first met Brand at the Labour Party conference in Bournemouth in 1999, before he was a household name. She said she later met him again at a hotel, where he allegedly raped her. The woman told the jury that after the alleged rape she felt "dirty" and feared she might be pregnant. She also said Brand had made her take photos of him with his top off, which were shown to the jury.
One witness told the court:
"He was just dark and arrogant and performing – he was scary, he was demanding."She added that after the alleged assault she was left crying and feeling stupid. The court heard that Brand had been watching a TV screen during the alleged encounter and appeared to be listening attentively, hardly moving his position.
The complainant recounted that Brand had acted "like Basil Fawlty when he does his goose steps" before the alleged rape, and that he had "jumped up and down being silly". She said she had been terrified and could not fight him. She blamed herself for allowing him back into the room, saying she had thought he was a gay man and felt safe with him. She also said she had delayed reporting the incident because she feared it would ruin her career.
Under cross‑examination, Brand’s barrister, Ian Winter KC, asked the woman why she had not run to the bathroom or left the room when Brand removed some of his clothes. She replied that she had no phone, no reception and did not know what to do. The defence also challenged her about why she had not reported the alleged assault to police in Bournemouth. She said she did not want anyone to know and did not think anyone would believe her.
Brand has maintained that any sexual contact, if it occurred, would have been consensual. The trial is expected to last six weeks. The case has drawn international attention, with many following the proceedings closely.
What to watch next: The court will continue to hear evidence over the coming weeks, with a verdict expected at the end of the six‑week trial. The outcome will have significant implications for Brand’s career and for how high‑profile sexual assault allegations are handled in the UK.
