Russell Brand Granted Bail on UK Sex Charges

Russell Brand appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London charged with two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault involving four women, with the alleged offenses occurring between 1999 and 2005. Brand did not enter a plea and was granted conditional bail, with a further court appearance scheduled for May 30. The charges stem from a Metropolitan Police investigation initiated after a 2023 documentary and additional media reports. Hours before his appearance, Brand publicly criticized the UK government's response to 'rape gangs,' sparking backlash. Brand has consistently denied all allegations of non-consensual sexual activity. Reactions to the case have been divided, with some calling the prosecution politically motivated and others emphasizing support for the alleged victims.