In a video shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Brand stated, “I was a drug addict, a sex addict, and an imbecile—but what I never was, was a rapist.” The video, titled “My response,” was posted shortly after the charges were announced. Brand firmly denied engaging in any non-consensual acts and criticized what he described as the British legal system being “weaponized.”
My response. pic.twitter.com/wJMGxlwBh0
— Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) April 4, 2025
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Brand, 49, faces one count of rape, one count of indecent assault, one count of oral rape, and two counts of sexual assault. The charges relate to incidents in both Bournemouth and Westminster, including an alleged rape in 1999, oral rape and sexual assault in 2004, and other assaults in 2001 and 2005.
Brand argued that while his past was marked by substance abuse and reckless behavior, all his relationships were consensual. He further alleged that the UK government and legal authorities are using his case as part of a wider abuse of power.
The allegations first surfaced in September 2023 through a joint media investigation involving The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches. The investigation led to increased scrutiny and a formal inquiry.
Russell Brand is scheduled to appear before Westminster Magistrates’ Court on May 2, 2025. The case remains under investigation, and authorities are encouraging others who may have relevant information to come forward.