Russell Brand denies charges as he takes witness stand at London trial

Russell Brand began giving evidence in his defence at Southwark Crown Court in London on Wednesday, after the prosecution closed its case. The 51-year-old comedian faces charges arising from allegations by six women about events between 1999 and 2009. He denies all the charges.

Asked by his barrister, Ian Winter KC, whether he had committed the alleged offences, Brand answered “no” to each question, the BBC reported. Winter then asked about a 2023 documentary containing allegations against Brand. Asked about its effect on his relationships with friends and colleagues, Brand replied: “It was devastating.” He said he had not persuaded any friend or acquaintance who might give evidence on his behalf to appear in court.

The documentary also figures in the complainants’ accounts. The women reported their allegations to police after it aired, according to earlier Associated Press reporting. One complainant said it prompted her to come forward, but rejected a defence suggestion that watching it had changed her recollection, the Guardian reported. The trial is continuing.