British comedian and actor Russell Brand appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London on Monday for the beginning of his trial regarding serious sexual offence charges. The 51-year-old arrived wearing a navy suit and sunglasses, accompanied by his wife, Laura Brand.
Brand faces multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault involving six complainants. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred between 1999 and 2009. During earlier pre-trial hearings, the entertainer entered pleas of not guilty to all charges.
The proceedings, which are anticipated to last up to ten weeks, are expected to commence with jury selection on Monday morning. A significant media presence surrounded the court as the case got underway.
Brand first gained prominence through stand-up comedy before becoming a television host for shows such as Big Brother’s Big Mouth and through radio programmes on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music. He later pursued a career in Hollywood, starring in films including Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him to the Greek, and has recently focused on podcasting.
The allegations are grave. Six women can’t all be wrong, but he claims innocence. Difficult case.
How can something from 1999 even be tried now? The statute of limitations feels murky here.
I never liked his act, but this is serious. Let the courts decide without my two cents.
Ten weeks is a long time. Hope the legal process is thorough and fair to everyone involved.