Russell Brand Confesses to Past Relationship with Teenager
Comedian and actor Russell Brand has publicly acknowledged having a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old girl when he was 30 years old. During an appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, the 50-year-old star described his past conduct as "selfish" and admitted it was "exploitative."
Legal Context and Personal Reflection
Brand emphasized that the relationship was both consensual and lawful under UK law, where the age of consent is 16. "I did sleep with a 16-year-old when I was 30," he stated during the podcast interview. However, he reflected that he was a "very different person back then" and recognized he took advantage of a "strong power differential" for his own gain.
The actor confessed: "I recognize that my sexual conduct in the past was selfish. I did not apply enough consideration, barely any I suppose really, to how that sex was affecting other people."
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
This revelation comes as Brand faces seven criminal charges in the United Kingdom, including multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges, with his trial scheduled to begin on October 12, 2026.
Among the allegations, one woman claims Brand began a three-month sexual relationship with her in 2006 while she was still attending school. Another woman, identified as "Alice," has accused him of controlling behavior and grooming, alleging he organized transportation to pick her up from school during lessons.
Recent Developments and Personal Projects
In September 2023, Brand posted a video online "absolutely" denying all allegations against him, insisting all his relationships had been "absolutely, always consensual." As of February 2026, he maintains his not guilty plea to all charges.
Months before his expected court appearance, Brand released a new spiritual memoir titled "How to Become a Christian in 7 Days." The book's description frames his conversion to Christianity against a backdrop of "false allegations" and personal challenges.
A further two-day pre-trial hearing has been scheduled for June 16 and 17, 2026. The comedian remains accused of crimes dating from 1999 to 2009 by six different women, all of which he continues to deny.
