Russell Brand was a 'sexual predator', prosecution alleges as rape trial begins
The rape and sexual assault trial of Russell Brand has begun at Southwark Crown Court, with prosecutors describing him as a 'sexual predator' who used his fame to exploit women. Brand denies all charges, which span a decade of alleged offenses.
Why it matters
The trial is a high-profile legal case involving allegations of systemic abuse by a public figure, drawing significant media and public attention.
Figure caption, Watch: BBC reports from outside court as Russell Brand's trial begins
Russell Brand was described as "ruthless" and a "sexual predator" by the prosecution at the start of his trial for rape and sexual assault on Wednesday.
The 51-year-old actor and comedian faces three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault and one of indecent assault.
The allegations, made by six female complainants, span a 10-year period between 1999 and 2009. He denies the charges.
Riel Karmy-Jones KC, for the prosecution, told Southwark Crown Court in London the women "did not know each other", "have never met each other" and "came forward independently of each other".
Warning - this report contains graphic content
Image source, Julia Quenzler/BBC Image caption, Russell Brand pictured in the dock on Wednesday in a court sketch
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