Russell Brand denies fresh rape and sexual assault allegations at Southwark Crown Court

Russell Brand denies charges

• Russell Brand pleads not guilty to new rape, assault charges
• Alleged incidents date back to 2009 in London
• Trial for all charges set for June 2026

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British comedian and actor Russell Brand has once again found himself at the centre of legal proceedings, formally denying a fresh set of rape and sexual assault allegations as the case against him continues to grow.

The 50-year-old appeared at Southwark Crown Court on Tuesday, entering not guilty pleas to the latest charges, which relate to alleged incidents dating back to 2009 — a period now more than a decade ago.

During the short hearing, Russell Brand confirmed his identity and pleaded not guilty to one count of rape and one count of sexual assault.

The session was brief and purely procedural, with no evidence presented at this stage. The court will hold further hearings to manage the next steps before the matter moves to a full trial.

According to LBC UK, these new charges concern alleged incidents in London in 2009. Prosecutors authorised the additional counts after investigators reviewed further material as part of the ongoing inquiry. Russell Brand has consistently denied all allegations and insists that his past relationships were consensual.

This marks the second time that Russell Brand has formally rejected criminal charges in this case. Earlier, he pleaded not guilty to five sexual offence charges, including two counts of rape, one count of indecent assault, and two counts of sexual assault, relating to incidents said to have occurred between 1999 and 2005 involving four women.

The trial for these earlier allegations is scheduled to begin in June 2026, with the newly added counts expected to be addressed during the same proceedings.

The investigation first began in 2023, following media reports in which multiple women came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct.

The Metropolitan Police opened an inquiry soon after, collecting witness statements and reviewing available evidence before the Crown Prosecution Service concluded there was enough to bring charges.

Also Read: Russell Brand charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault by UK Police

Under UK law, the identities of complainants in sexual offence cases are protected. Experts note that allegations dating back many years can present complex evidentiary challenges.

Russell Brand, who first became known as a stand-up comedian and television presenter before moving into radio and film, has maintained his innocence since the allegations first emerged.

He remains on bail as the legal process continues. Until a court delivers its verdict, Russell Brand is presumed innocent, a cornerstone of the British justice system.