Russell Brand to face sentencing after sexual assault convictions

A London jury found British comedian Russell Brand guilty of four sexual offenses on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026, following a four-week trial at Southwark Crown Court. The 51-year-old was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault, with the offenses occurring between 2004 and 2009.

The jury acquitted Brand of two additional counts of rape and one count of attempted indecent assault. Following the verdict, the court remanded the defendant in custody. Mr. Justice Joel Bennathan, who presided over the trial, stated that the convictions will lead to a significant custodial term.

Prosecutors argued during the proceedings that Brand utilized his fame and influence to manipulate and exploit women. David Roberts, a senior crown prosecutor, described the defendant as a calculated sexual predator who pursued women regardless of their consent. Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy of the Metropolitan Police Service stated that the conviction demonstrates that no individual is above the law, regardless of their public profile.

Brand, who denied all allegations throughout the trial, testified that he never forced anyone to engage in sexual acts. During the proceedings, he addressed his wife, Laura Brand, and spoke to his legal team after being denied bail. The court is scheduled to hand down the sentence on Monday, Nov. 9, 2026.