London, England —
Three British news organizations reported Saturday that comedian and social influencer Russell Brand has been accused of rape as well as assault and sex abuse by four women who knew him for seven years at the height of his fame. Brand denied all the allegations and said that all relationships were consensual.
The Sunday Times, Times of London and an episode of Channel 4’s “Dispatches” reported that one of the four women accused Brand of raping her. Meanwhile, three other women accused Brand of sexual harassment. One of the four women also stated that Brand had committed physical and emotional violence.
The four women said they only felt ready to tell their stories after being approached by journalists. Some said Brand’s newfound fame as an online health influencer encouraged them to speak out.
Before the allegations were published, Brand posted a video online, denying the allegations. According to Brand in the video, the accusations were outlined in two “very disturbing letters” from “mainstream media” television companies and one newspaper. He did not name the news organization.
“These accusations relate to my past when I was promiscuous,” said Brand. He added, at that time, “the relationships I had were truly, always based on mutual consent,” he added.
According to Brand, the accusations were part of a coordinated attack designed to discredit him for his views. Brand has been criticized for being skeptical of COVID-19 vaccines and interviewing controversial podcasters like Joe Rogan.
Brand rose to prominence as a stand-up comic in the UK in the early 2000s. His fame earned him a starring role on Channel 4 and then BBC Radio, where he banked on his reputation for outrageous behavior and raunchy banter.
He then ventured into Hollywood, appearing in films such as “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” in 2008 and “Arthur” in 2011. He was married to American pop singer Katy Perry from 2010-2012.
Recently his attitude has changed. He is now a political commentator and influencer who posts YouTube videos on topics such as personal freedom and the COVID-19 pandemic. (ka/hour)