Russell Brand Faces Fresh Rape and Assault Charges in Ongoing Case
Comedian Russell Brand is now facing two more charges of rape and sexual assault, with court dates set for 2026. Police are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.
Russell Brand has been hit with two new charges of rape and sexual assault, adding to the ongoing police investigation that’s been making headlines since last year. The Metropolitan Police in London confirmed on 23 December that these latest charges involve two more women, separate from the four who were part of the original allegations brought to light in April. Brand, who’s known for his work as a comedian and actor, has already denied all previous claims and entered not guilty pleas to the earlier charges.
The new allegations include one count of rape, said to have happened between 7 February and 1 March 2009, and a separate count of sexual assault, alleged to have taken place between 31 August and 1 December that same year. Brand is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on 20 January 2026, where he’ll be expected to enter a plea for these fresh accusations.
Upcoming Court Dates and Ongoing Proceedings
Brand is already scheduled to front Southwark Crown Court from 16 June 2026, when the trial for the five earlier charges is set to kick off. These include one count of indecent assault, two counts of sexual assault, and two counts of rape. He’s maintained his innocence throughout, sticking to his not guilty stance since the allegations first surfaced.
With the announcement of the new charges, the Metropolitan Police’s lead investigator, Tariq Farooqi, has renewed calls for witnesses to come forward.
“The women who have made reports, including those connected to the two new charges, continue to receive support from specially trained officers,”
he said.
“The Met’s investigation remains ongoing, and detectives urge anyone affected by this case, or anyone with information, to come forward and speak with police. Support is also available through the independent charity Rape Crisis by contacting the 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line.”
Background to the Allegations
The first public claims against Brand emerged in August 2023, following a joint investigation by The Times, The Sunday Times, and Channel 4’s Dispatches. That prompted the police to launch their own inquiry, which has since led to multiple charges. Brand has consistently denied all allegations since they were first made public and has not commented on the latest developments.
Authorities are continuing to encourage anyone with information or who may have been affected to reach out. Support is available for those impacted by sexual harassment, assault, or rape, with dedicated organisations offering help in both the UK and the US.