Russell Brand was a 'sexual predator', says prosecution as rape trial begins - BBC
The rape trial of actor and comedian Russell Brand has begun at Southwark Crown Court in London. Prosecutors described Brand as a 'sexual predator' who used his fame to target women over a decade-long period.
Why it matters
This high-profile trial addresses serious allegations of sexual misconduct against a public figure, highlighting issues of power dynamics and accountability.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Helena Wilkinson and Sima Kotecha , Southwark Crown Court 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".
The barrister said: "The circumstances of the offending were as wide and as varied as the defendant's career."
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in