Russell Brand spent more than four hours in the witness box on Wednesday at Southwark Crown Court, where he faces three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and one charge of attempted indecent assault. He denies all charges.
Six alleged victims have told the court that Brand appeared charming initially before suddenly becoming forceful and pressuring them into sexual activity. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred in a toilet, a hotel room, workplace corridors and his bedroom. According to the women’s accounts, Brand acted as though nothing had happened after each alleged attack.
Brand’s testimony formed a key part of his defence against the charges, with his legal team presenting his account of the events disputed by the prosecution witnesses.
During his court appearance, Brand addressed the prosecution’s case and answered questions about his interactions with each of the women bringing allegations.
The trial continues to examine the credibility of witnesses on both sides. Brand’s legal representatives questioned the accounts presented by the prosecution witnesses.
The case has attracted significant media attention given Brand’s public profile as a comedian, actor and former television and radio presenter.
The trial at Southwark Crown Court continues.
