Jury convicts Russell Brand of rape and three sexual assaults

A jury at Southwark Crown Court in London found Russell Brand guilty of rape and three counts of sexual assault on Thursday.

The 51-year-old comedian and actor spent nearly nine hours under deliberation before returning the verdict. The four convictions stem from incidents involving four women between 2004 and 2009. Prosecutors argued that Brand used his rising fame to manipulate the victims. He maintained that the encounters were consensual. The jury rejected that defense for the four convicted counts but acquitted him on two rape charges and one count of attempted indecent assault.

The case emerged after investigative reports in 2023 prompted additional women to come forward. The Metropolitan Police built the prosecution case by interviewing more than 100 witnesses. Investigators collected over 400 statements and reviewed more than 1,400 documents. They also examined historical records, photographs, and hours of Brand's television appearances to verify timelines.

Judge Joel Bennathan ordered Brand to remain in custody following the verdict. The judge indicated that Brand faces a substantial prison term. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that two additional rape allegations are under investigation. Prosecutors are currently reviewing information related to those claims.

Brand is scheduled for sentencing on Monday, Nov. 9. He first gained national attention as a stand-up comedian and broadcaster. He later appeared in Hollywood films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek. In recent years, he cultivated an online audience through commentary on wellness and politics.