Russell Brand Addresses Past Conduct Ahead of Sexual Assault Trial

Russell Brand has addressed his past behavior in a candid interview ahead of his upcoming sexual assault trial in the United Kingdom. Speaking on The Megyn Kelly Show, the comedian and actor reflected on his history, specifically addressing allegations regarding his interactions with younger women during his earlier career.

When asked by host Megyn Kelly about claims that he had taken advantage of 16-year-olds, Brand acknowledged a specific past relationship. “I did sleep with a 16-year-old when I was 30,” Brand stated. “When I was 30, I was a very different person. I was a lot younger, and I was an immature 30-year-old.” He noted that the age of consent in the U.K. is 16.

Brand went on to discuss the complexities of power dynamics and fame. “Consensual sex with a lot of people, when there is a strong power differential, as there is when you are a famous man who has the ability to attract women that I had at that time, I think involves exploitation. I think it is exploitative,” he admitted. “I recognize that my sexual conduct in the past was selfish and I did not apply enough consideration, barely any I suppose, really, to how that sex was affecting other people.”

Due to ongoing legal proceedings in the U.K. regarding “contempt of court” laws, Brand refrained from discussing the specific charges currently pending against him, which include counts of rape, sexual assault, and indecent exposure. However, he maintained his stance that his celebrity status often resulted in what he described as “endless consent.”

Brand has pleaded not guilty to all charges. As his trial approaches in October, he expressed a desire for a judicial resolution. “In that trial, I’ll have the opportunity, as will the people who feel wrong against, to achieve justice, and I have no problem in praying for absolute justice and the best possible outcome for everyone involved,” he said.