Russell Brand Pleads Not Guilty to Additional Rape and Sexual Assault Charges

British comedian and actor Russell Brand has pleaded not guilty to two further charges of rape and sexual assault, adding to existing accusations against him. The new allegations relate to incidents alleged to have occurred in 2009, involving two women.

Details of the New Charges

Brand appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, to enter his pleas. The charges involve one count of rape and one count of sexual assault, both alleged to have taken place in London in 2009 BBC News, Al Jazeera.

Previous Allegations

These new charges are in addition to previous allegations Brand faces. He had previously pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape, one of indecent assault and two of sexual assault, relating to alleged offenses between 1999 and 2005 involving four women BBC News. A trial for these original charges is scheduled for June.

Court Proceedings and Next Steps

A case management hearing is scheduled for March to determine whether the new allegations will be joined to the existing case. Brand’s lawyer requested more time to address the new charges BBC News. He was bailed to appear at Southwark Crown Court at a later date.

Investigation Background

The investigation into allegations against Brand began following reporting by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches in 2023 BBC News.

Brand’s Appearance in Court

During the court appearance, Brand wore a leopard print shirt and a fedora hat. He carried a copy of the Bible into the court building, with several pages bookmarked BBC News.

Brand’s Career

Russell Brand, 50, rose to fame as a stand-up comedian and television presenter, hosting shows like Big Brother’s Big Mouth and radio programs on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music. He later transitioned to a Hollywood career, appearing in films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him To The Greek BBC News.