Russell Brand has responded to new rape and sexual assault charges by posting a video to his followers on social media. The charges, confirmed on December 23, 2025, involve two additional allegations of rape and sexual assault, separate from previous charges brought against him in May 2025. Brand is scheduled to appear in court on January 20, 2026, for incidents allegedly occurring in 2009. He previously pleaded not guilty to five counts of sexual assault stemming from alleged incidents between 1999 and 2005.
In the video, filmed while driving, Brand spoke of "confusion and dispute and conflict," expressing gratitude for opportunities for "change and transformation and growth and love," and the chance to "atone for the many things over the years that I did wrong." He also referenced his Christian faith, praying for healing for anyone he may have harmed and for the "absolute truth of who I am" to be revealed. He concluded with a biblical reference from James 1:2-3 and wished his followers a Merry Christmas. Metropolitan Police confirmed that the women involved are receiving support from specially trained officers. A trial for the original five charges is set for June 16, 2026, at Southwark Crown Court. These earlier allegations include rape in Bournemouth in 1999, indecent assault in Westminster in 2001, sexual assault in Westminster between 2004 and 2005, and oral rape and sexual assault in Westminster in 2004. The investigation into Brand began after reporting by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4's Dispatches in September 2023.