What’s next for Russell Brand? Actor Charged with New Rape and Sexual Assault Allegations as Court Date is Set
Russell Brand Faces New Rape and Assault Charges. Image Source: Comedy Carnival
British actor and comedian Russell Brand has been charged with two new criminal offences, including one count of rape and one count of sexual assault, according to London’s Metropolitan Police. The new charges mark a significant escalation in the ongoing legal proceedings facing the 50-year-old broadcaster, who is already awaiting trial on multiple sexual offence allegations.
Police confirmed on Tuesday that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) authorised the additional charges following further investigations. Brand is now scheduled to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on January 20, 2026, in connection with the new allegations.
Details of the New Charges Against Russell Brand
According to police statements, the new rape charge is alleged to have occurred between February 7 and March 1, 2009, while the new sexual assault charge relates to a separate woman and is alleged to have taken place between August 21 and December 9, 2009.
These accusations are independent of the five earlier charges Brand previously faced. Those earlier allegations involve four women and span incidents said to have occurred between 1999 and 2005 in locations including central London and Bournemouth.
Brand has pleaded not guilty to the five original charges and remains on conditional bail pending trial.
Upcoming Court Dates and Trial Timeline
Legal proceedings against Brand are now split across two timelines:
- January 20, 2026: Court appearance at Westminster Magistrates’ Court for the two new charges
- June 16, 2026: Trial scheduled to begin at Southwark Crown Court for the original five charges
The original case includes allegations of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault, including claims of oral rape and sexual assault in Westminster and Bournemouth.
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Police Say Complainants Are Receiving Ongoing Support
Detective Chief Inspector Tariq Farooqi of the Metropolitan Police confirmed that all women who have come forward are receiving assistance.
“The women who have made reports, including those connected to the two new charges, continue to receive support from specially trained officers,” Farooqi said.
Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward as investigations remain active.
How the Allegations First Emerged
The investigation into Russell Brand began following a joint media exposé published in September 2023 by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches. That reporting detailed allegations from multiple women in both the UK and the United States, including claims of rape, sexual assault, and physical and emotional abuse between 2006 and 2013.
Shortly after the publication of those reports, YouTube suspended monetisation of Brand’s channels.
Civil Lawsuit and Additional Legal Pressure
In addition to the criminal proceedings in the UK, Brand is also named as a defendant in a civil lawsuit in the United States. The case alleges that he sexually assaulted an anonymous “Jane Doe” plaintiff on the set of the 2010 film Arthur. That civil case remains ongoing.
Russell Brand’s Career and Public Profile
Russell Brand rose to prominence in the UK as a stand-up comedian and television presenter, becoming widely known for hosting Big Brother’s Big Mouth and presenting radio shows on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music.
He later transitioned into Hollywood, starring in films such as Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek, before reinventing himself in recent years as an online commentator and podcast host with a large global following.
What Happens Next in the Russell Brand Case
With new criminal charges added, Brand’s legal situation has become increasingly complex. The coming months will be critical as the courts determine how the additional allegations affect the broader case.
Legal experts note that the January 2026 hearing will focus on procedural matters, while the June 2026 trial will determine the outcome of the original charges.
FAQ: Russell Brand Charges Explained
What has Russell Brand been charged with?
Russell Brand has been charged with two new offences: one count of rape and one count of sexual assault, in addition to five earlier charges.
How many total charges does Russell Brand face?
Brand now faces seven criminal charges in total, involving allegations from six different women.
When will Russell Brand appear in court?
He is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on January 20, 2026, with a full trial on earlier charges scheduled for June 16, 2026.
Has Russell Brand pleaded guilty or not guilty?
Brand has pleaded not guilty to the five original charges. He has not yet entered pleas on the new allegations.
What years do the allegations cover?
The allegations span from 1999 to 2009, according to police and court documents.
Are the complainants receiving support?
Yes. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that all complainants are being supported by specially trained officers.
Is Russell Brand involved in any civil cases?
Yes. Brand is also facing a civil sexual assault lawsuit in the United States related to allegations from 2010.