British comedian and actor Russell Brand has formally denied a fresh set of rape and sexual assault allegations as legal proceedings against him continue to expand. The 50-year-old appeared before Southwark Crown Court on Tuesday, where he entered not guilty pleas to the latest charges, which relate to alleged incidents said to have taken place in 2009.
During the brief court hearing, Brand confirmed his identity and responded “not guilty” to one count of rape and one count of sexual assault. The session was procedural in nature and focused solely on recording his pleas. No evidence was presented at this stage, and the court did not hear arguments from either side. Further procedural hearings are expected before the case proceeds to trial.
According to reports from LBC, the newly filed charges stem from alleged incidents in London in 2009. Prosecutors authorised the additional counts after investigators reviewed further material as part of an ongoing inquiry. The expansion of charges follows continued examination of evidence gathered during the broader investigation.
Brand has consistently denied all allegations made against him and maintains that his past relationships were consensual. His legal team has not yet presented its full defence in court, as the case remains in the pre-trial phase.
This marks the second time Brand has formally rejected criminal charges in the ongoing case. Previously, 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. Those earlier allegations relate to incidents alleged to have occurred between 1999 and 2005 and involve four separate women.
The trial concerning the earlier charges is currently scheduled for June 2026. The newly added counts are also expected to be addressed during those proceedings, meaning the scope of the upcoming trial could encompass allegations spanning a decade.
The investigation into Brand began in 2023 after multiple women made allegations of sexual misconduct in media reports. Shortly after those claims surfaced, the Metropolitan Police launched a formal inquiry. Detectives gathered witness statements, reviewed documentary material and assessed available evidence. Following that review, the Crown Prosecution Service determined there was sufficient basis to bring charges.
Under UK law, individuals who make complaints in sexual offence cases are granted lifelong anonymity, meaning their identities cannot be disclosed publicly. Legal experts often note that cases involving allegations dating back many years can present evidentiary challenges, particularly where physical evidence may be limited and cases rely heavily on witness testimony.
Brand rose to prominence in the early 2000s as a stand-up comedian and television presenter known for his provocative style and outspoken persona. He later expanded into radio broadcasting and film, becoming a recognisable figure both in the UK and internationally. In recent years, he has shifted much of his public presence to online platforms, where he comments on politics, culture and current affairs.
As the legal process unfolds, Brand remains on bail. The court has not set a new trial date beyond the previously scheduled June 2026 proceedings, but additional administrative hearings are expected in the coming months.
It is important to note that entering a not guilty plea is a standard legal step in criminal proceedings and does not determine the outcome of the case. The burden remains on the prosecution to prove the charges beyond reasonable doubt. Until a verdict is reached, Brand is presumed innocent under UK law.
The case continues to draw significant public attention due to Brand’s high-profile career and the serious nature of the allegations. However, substantive details and evidence will only be examined fully when the matter goes to trial. For now, the proceedings remain in the pre-trial stage, with the courts set to address both the earlier and newly added charges in the months ahead.