British comedian Brand found guilty of rape

British comedian and actor Russell Brand has been found guilty of rape and multiple sexual assaults in a trial. The verdict was handed down by a jury at London's Southwark Crown Court. The sentence is due to be announced next week. The judge already indicated that there would be a prison sentence. After the verdict was announced, Brand, who had been out on bail, was taken into custody.

The 51-year-old was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. However, he was acquitted on two further counts of rape and one count of attempted sexual assault.

A total of six women had accused the comedian of sexual assault between 1999 and 2009. At that time, Brand developed from an aspiring stand-up comedian to a prominent figure in Great Britain.

Prosecutor speaks of “sex offenders”

Brand testified that he was obsessed with sex when he was younger. However, his sexual encounters were always consensual. His lawyers argued that the credibility of the allegations against Brand was weakened by the fact that the plaintiffs did not go to the police until several years after the alleged incidents. They only came forward after the broadcast of a documentary from 2023 that contained anonymous allegations against Brand.

The public prosecutor, however, had accused the actor of serious character deficiencies. "He was ruthless, he was calculating and he was manipulative, and according to the prosecution, a sexual predator," said prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones.

The crimes occurred at a time when Brand's popularity was increasing significantly. He wasn't interested in women's feelings. "What came first for him was his insatiable desire to get what he wanted, from whomever he wanted it from."

Brand was accompanied at most court appearances by his wife Laura, who also testified in his defense. After the verdict, London police praised the “extraordinary courage” of the women who reported the fire.

Stand-up comedian, presenter, actor

Brand became famous for his often provocative appearances as a stand-up comedian and as a radio and television presenter on the BBC and MTV. With roles in films such as "Never Have Sex With Your Ex Again" (2008), he made the leap into international cinema.

Brand now lives in the USA. He was previously married to pop singer Katy Perry.