Police in Britain have interviewed Russell Brand over a spate of sexual assault allegations against the comedian, according to reports.
While authorities did not specify whom they had spoken with, the Times and BBC News identified the man as Brand.
“A man in his 40s attended a police station in south London on Thursday, 16 November 2023, the Metropolitan Police said in a statement. “He was interviewed under caution by detectives in relation to three non-recent sexual offences. Enquiries continue.”
“Under caution” means they recorded the interview and that the material can be used in future prosecutions.
The Times and Sunday Times in September reported that four women had accused Brand of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse. He had dated them between 2006 and 2013, at the peak of his U.K. fame and on the cusp of his U.S. popularity.
One woman said he pushed her up against a wall and raped her, another said he sexually assaulted her and then threatened legal action if she went to authorities, and others said he subjected them to physical and emotional abuse, sexual harassment and bullying. In addition, crew members said they were instructed to troll audiences for young women on Brand’s behalf.
A few days after those bombshells, more women came forward, and government minister Caroline Nokes called for a Scotland Yard investigation. Brand’s “Bipolarisation” tour was canceled mid-run, his YouTube channel was demonetized, and his shows on BBC were pulled. A book publisher and a talent agency also reportedly severed ties with Brand, 48.
Brand has denied the allegations, said all encounters were consensual, and has appealed to fans for financial help via his Rumble page. While he hasn’t addressed the accusations in public, he has made public comments since then.
Nonetheless, the Metropolitan Police launched an investigation.
The comedian and actor is known for turns in “Forgetting Sarah Marshal” and the 2011 remake of “Arthur.” He is also pop star Katy Perry’s ex-husband, having been married to her from 2010 to 2013. He has also parlayed his fame into a 6.6 million subscriber base on YouTube, where he positioned himself as a social commentator, touting conspiracy theories, and something of a wellness guru.
With News Wire Services
Theresa Braine
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