Russell Brand has been formally charged with rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault in connection with incidents that allegedly took place between 1999 and 2005.
The charges involve four separate women.
The comedian and actor has been questioned multiple times by police following an investigation by the Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4's Dispatches in September 2023, which uncovered several serious allegations against him.
Brand, 49, has previously denied the accusations, calling them "very, very hurtful" and maintaining that all of his relationships were "always consensual."
In a brief statement, the Metropolitan Police confirmed they had notified Brand that he was being charged with one count of rape, one count of indecent assault, one count of oral rape, and two further charges of sexual assault.
The charges are related to the following alleged incidents:
- In 1999, a woman was allegedly raped in the Bournemouth area.
- In 2001, a woman was reportedly indecently assaulted in Westminster, London.
- In 2004, a woman was allegedly orally raped and sexually assaulted in Westminster, London.
- Between 2004 and 2005, a woman was sexually assaulted in Westminster, London.
Brand is scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 2, though it is believed he is currently in the United States.
In cases where a suspect is abroad, prosecutors typically work to arrange the defendant's return. If there is no cooperation, extradition may be pursued.
"A number of sexual offences"
Jaswant Narwal from the Crown Prosecution Service stated: "We have today authorized the Metropolitan Police to charge Russell Brand with a number of sexual offences.
"We thoroughly reviewed the evidence after a police investigation into allegations that followed the airing of a Channel 4 documentary in September 2023.
"We have concluded that Russell Brand should be charged with offences including rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault, all relating to reported incidents between 1999 and 2005, involving four women.
"The Crown Prosecution Service emphasizes that criminal proceedings are ongoing, and the defendant has the right to a fair trial. It is crucial that there is no reporting, commentary, or sharing of information online that could prejudice these proceedings."
Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy, who is overseeing the investigation, said: "The women who have come forward continue to receive support from specially trained officers.
"The investigation remains open, and detectives urge anyone affected by this case or anyone with relevant information to come forward. A dedicated team of investigators can be reached via email at CIT@met.police.uk.
"Support is also available through the independent charity Rape Crisis, which offers a 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line."
Brand, who initially gained fame through stand-up comedy, later expanded into broadcasting. He hosted radio shows on BBC 6 Music and Radio 2 between 2006 and 2008 and fronted television programs on Channel 4. He also starred in several Hollywood films.
