UK prosecutor tells jury Russell Brand a ‘sexual predator’

A British prosecutor has described comedian Russell Brand as a "sexual predator" who was "ruthless, calculated and manipulative" when targeting women for sexual activity, opening the actor's rape and sexual assault trial in London. The seven sexual offence charges, spanning from 1999 to 2009, involve six women who have alleged they were victims of Brand's alleged actions.

During the trial, prosecutor Riel Karmy-Jones stated that Brand's desire for sexual contact was "indiscriminate and voracious," and he would use charm and his comedic talents to gain what he wanted, but then become "demanding and entitled." Brand, dressed in a dark suit and tie, arrived for the start of the case at Southwark Crown Court accompanied by his wife.

The prosecutor noted that acquaintances of Brand had recounted his boastful claims of wanting to "bed 5,000 women in his lifetime," further emphasizing Brand's manipulative tendencies. Brand has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and the trial is expected to last around six weeks. The case has garnered significant media attention, with numerous outlets producing content dedicated to the trial and US channels broadcasting live from outside the court.