Russell Brand has preemptively addressed explosive accusations against him before they hit the news, using his own channel to vehemently deny committing any wrongdoing.
Key Takeaway
Russell Brand has denied the rape and sexual assault allegations made against him by multiple women, stating that all his sexual encounters have been consensual.
The comedian turned podcaster took to YouTube and Twitter on Friday night to address a couple of “different” stories that were about to be published. These stories detail accusations made by women, some of whom claim he abused them.
The two pieces were published on Saturday, in a collaboration between The Times (UK) and Channel 4, and the information they contain appears to be extensive with investigations spanning up to a year.
A total of at least 5 women spoke to journalists to detail disturbing stories between them and Russell, from 2006 to 2013, when the actor was at the height of his fame in Hollywood. These range from direct rape and sexual assault to abuse, as well as allegations of controlling and threatening behavior. One woman, who remained anonymous, alleged that toxic interactions with Russell began when she was underage, at just 16 years old.
Anticipating the publication of the exposé, Russell directly addressed his audience, stating that he completely refutes the criminal-level accusations, which apparently pertain to the allegations of rape and sexual assault. He claims that all his sexual encounters have been consensual.
Russell acknowledges that he was very promiscuous in the past and has had many partners, but he also says that he has openly talked about this in recent years.
He suggests that he is being targeted by the media, and the reasons could be related to his recent stances and policies, in which he has made his voice heard.
If you haven’t been following Russell’s journey lately, the guy is heavily leaning right these days and has adopted strong opinions on topics ranging from COVID to Ukraine and beyond. He is very much in Joe Rogan’s camp and thinks that is at the root of all this.
It doesn’t sound like he’s doing anything formal regarding the accusations – including filing police reports or lawsuits – but he says he will look into them.
It is important to note that Russell does not seem to have any acting projects on the horizon at the moment.
