Russell Brand closes Stay Free Foundation amid sexual assault allegations

Russell Brand has officially closed his charity, the Stay Free Foundation, which focused on addiction and mental health support, following a series of sexual assault allegations made against him by four women between 2006 and 2013. The Charity Commission confirmed that the organization was removed from the register in January 2025 after being informed in September 2023 that it 'no longer operates.' Brand has denied all allegations, asserting that his relationships were consensual. The charity's closure was influenced by a joint investigation that prompted several other charities to sever ties with him. A BBC review also revealed that staff felt unable to raise concerns about Brand's behavior during his time with the corporation, leading to an apology from the BBC. Meanwhile, the Crown Prosecution Service is reportedly considering charges related to the allegations against Brand.