Russell Brand convicted of rape and sexual assault

PBS NewsHour · 2026-11-05 15:31 UTC

Brand, 51, denied the charges and testified that he was obsessed with sex as a young man and once led a promiscuous life but had never forced anyone to do something against their will.

LONDON (AP) — Russell Brand was convicted Thursday of rape and sexual assault charges on allegations dating back more than 20 years.

Judge Joel Bennathan said Brand faces a "significant" prison term when he is sentenced Monday. He had been free on bail but was taken into custody.

A prosecutor said the British actor-comedian was a ruthless, calculating, manipulative "sexual predator."

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