Russell Brand’s trial on seven sexual offence charges is under way at Southwark Crown Court in London, with a jury sworn in on Tuesday 13 October 2026. The 51-year-old comedian and former television presenter faces allegations involving six women and incidents said to have taken place between 1999 and 2009. Brand has pleaded not guilty to every charge.
Jury selected as proceedings begin
The trial opened on Monday 12 October, when jury selection began before Mr Justice Bennathan.
On Tuesday, eight men and four women were sworn in as jurors. A reserve juror was also selected to attend the prosecution’s opening.
The judge instructed jurors not to conduct their own research into Brand or the allegations, and not to allow previous media reporting to influence their decisions.
The prosecution, led by Riel Karmy-Jones KC, is expected to outline its case on Wednesday 14 October.
The trial is expected to last approximately six weeks, although the timetable may change.
What charges does Russell Brand face?
Brand faces seven charges involving six women:
- Three counts of rape
- Three counts of sexual assault
- One count of indecent assault
The alleged offences span a decade, from 1999 to 2009, during which Brand became a prominent figure in British broadcasting and entertainment.
The Metropolitan Police began investigating allegations of sexual misconduct in September 2023, following a joint investigation by Channel 4’s Dispatches, The Sunday Times and The Times.
In April 2025, the Crown Prosecution Service authorised five charges relating to four women and alleged incidents between 1999 and 2005.
A further two charges, involving two additional women and alleged incidents in 2009, were authorised in December 2025.
These brought the total number of charges to seven.
Brand denies all the allegations.
What happens next?
The jury is expected to hear the prosecution’s opening statement on Wednesday, when the allegations and the case the prosecution intends to present will be set out in court.
The defence will have the opportunity to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and present its case as proceedings develop.
The jury will ultimately be required to decide whether the prosecution has proved each charge beyond reasonable doubt.
Brand remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Fish4News trial coverage
Fish4News will follow the proceedings at Southwark Crown Court, providing updates on significant evidence, legal arguments and developments throughout the trial.
Reporting will distinguish allegations made by the prosecution from evidence tested in court, defence submissions and any findings ultimately made by the jury.
