Victims of Russell Brand have described the lasting trauma of his crimes in emotional impact statements read at Southwark Crown Court, where the 51-year-old was found guilty of rape and sexual assault.
Brand, a former comedian and actor, was convicted of raping a woman in 2009 and sexually assaulting female TV and radio workers between 2004 and 2009. During the four-week trial, prosecutors said he preyed on women he met on his rise to fame as a comedian, TV and radio host, and Hollywood actor. He claimed all his sexual encounters were consensual, describing his life as “promiscuous” but never illegal.
First victim describes shock and loss of self-worth
The first victim, sexually assaulted by Brand in a Soho bar in 2004, delivered her statement live in court from behind a protective curtain. She said she was in “complete shock and turmoil for weeks” and lost respect for herself, adding: “I literally lost any love for myself for a long time thinking that I was damaged goods.”
She described feeling “visibly sick” seeing Brand celebrated in the media, and said she suffered her only panic attack after seeing front-page coverage of her case. She also recounted receiving “accusations and death threats from manic supporters of him on social media” and said the last three years had been a “massive strain” on her and her family.
Second victim calls Brand a 'sexual predator'
Another victim, assaulted by Brand at Choice FM in 2005, said the incident had a “lasting impact” on her life, affecting her work and relationships with male colleagues, especially during the Me Too movement. Her statement, read by prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones KC, said she was advised to seek therapy for “serious anxiety” and almost withdrew from the case because she did not feel strong enough to proceed.
She concluded: “Russell Brand is a sexual predator who has no remorse for how his behaviour has impacted my life. I just hope that he is not allowed to hurt any more women.”
Rape victim speaks of power imbalance and fear
Brand's rape victim said his fame and influence created a “power imbalance” that made her feel powerless and unable to report him. She said the investigation and criminal justice process were “extremely difficult,” leaving her feeling “as though I was the person being scrutinised and interrogated.”
She described the media coverage as adding “another layer of difficulty,” and said she has continued to experience anxiety, difficulties with trust and reduced confidence. She said the incident affected her day-to-day life, leading her to become hypervigilant and, at times, to increase her alcohol consumption to block out feelings.
Final victim says process felt like 'a marathon'
The final victim, sexually assaulted by Brand while he was filming a project in 2009, said the incident “opened my eyes up in a bad way” and made her wary of working relationships. She said she spoke up immediately but was “brushed under the carpet by senior management,” and that the process of reporting to police and going to trial was “exceedingly difficult.”
She said she always felt “a knot in my chest” and that giving evidence took her back to the day of the assault. She expressed gratitude to the police and prosecution team, saying: “I finally feel believed but I am still so anxious.” She concluded: “I have a huge respect for every woman who took part and I think they are incredible.”
