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Ted Hennessey and Tristan Kirk

Russell Brand fronts court for rape, sex assault trial

Russell Brand has been charged with rape, sexual assault and indecent assault. (AP PHOTO)

Russell Brand has arrived at Southwark Crown Court with his wife for the start of his trial on rape and sexual assault charges.

The 51-year-old is accused of groping women and forcing them into sexual acts over 10 years from 1999 to 2009.

Jury selection is expected to begin on Monday, for a trial which could last up to 10 weeks.

Brand arrived outside Southwark Crown Court in London in a black Mercedes at around 8.45am local time, waiting for a few minutes before leaving the vehicle.

Flanked by security and accompanied by his spouse Laura Gallacher, Brand said nothing to members of the press as he walked into the courthouse.

The comedian and actor is supported by his wife Laura Brand.
The comedian and actor arrived at court supported by his wife Laura. (AP PHOTO)

The British comedian wore a grey suit, a white unbuttoned shirt with a brown neckerchief underneath, brown boots and sunglasses, which he took off as he walked past the assembled press cameras at the court entrance.

Once inside, he and his legal team were ushered into a private room close to the courtroom where his trial is due to take place.

Brand denies three charges of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of indecent assault, alleged by six women.

Previous hearings have been told Brand is accused of raping a woman in a hotel room at the Labour Party conference in Bournemouth, grabbing a TV worker’s breasts and forcing her into a sex act in a toilet, and kissing and groping a radio station worker.

Brand is out on bail and entered not guilty pleas at earlier hearings.
Brand's trial is scheduled to run for up to 10 weeks. (AP PHOTO)

Essex-born Brand started out as a stand-up comedian and his showbiz career took off when he was picked to front Big Brother spin-off shows by Channel 4.

He became one of Britain’s best-known comedians in the 2000s and won presenting roles including the 2007 Brit Awards, Comic Relief and the MTV Music Video Awards, and hosted his own show on BBC Radio 2.

He made the move into Hollywood films with roles including an Arthur remake, comedy Forgetting Sarah Marshall and 2012 musical comedy Rock Of Ages.

In recent years, he has pivoted to podcasting and online influencing, and now lives in Florida in the United States.

Brand pleaded not guilty to the charges during pre-trial hearings and is on bail.

His case is being overseen by High Court judge Justice Bennathan.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028

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