In a series of police interviews spanning 2023 to 2025, Russell Brand claimed he had been "very promiscuous" but never partook in "non‑consensual sexual activity," the court heard. The TV and media personality is on trial at Southwark Crown Court in London on three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault and one of attempted indecent assault, all of which he denies.
Jurors were informed that Brand gave a prepared statement in each interview. In November 2023, he stated, "I have repeatedly stated publicly and written extensively that I led a very promiscuous life, that I have spent years openly denouncing. I have never engaged in non‑consensual activity." He further alleged that the accusations stemmed from a "defamatory and fictitious documentary" containing "false and anonymised" interviews.
Brand added that subsequent media and police coverage prompted additional, allegedly fabricated allegations. The judge, Mr Justice Bennathan, found "insufficient evidence to support the charge of indecent assault" relating to a 2001 incident at MTV. The indictment was amended to charge Brand with attempted indecent assault, to which he pleaded not guilty.
The prosecution is set to conclude on Wednesday morning, after which the defence is expected to begin. Brand maintains his innocence on all counts.
