World2 min(s) read
Published 09:20 23 Apr 2026 GMT
Russell Brand has addressed claims about a past relationship with a 16-year-old girl, confirming that it did happen while describing himself at the time as a “very different person back then.”
On Wednesday, the comedian appeared on The Megyn Kelly Show, where he spoke about his public life, past relationships, ongoing legal issues, and the crimes he is alleged to have committed.
During the interview, which came shortly after he pleaded not guilty to new charges of rape and sexual assault, Brand acknowledged the relationship but said it was consensual and legal, with there being no suggestion of criminal wrongdoing, as the age of consent in the UK is 16.
He stated, “I did sleep with a 16-year-old when I was 30,” and emphasized, “In Europe and in the United Kingdom, where I'm from, the age of consent is 16.”
Reflecting on that period, Brand said he was a “very different person” and described himself as “an immature 30 year old.” He also admitted that his past behavior could be seen as “exploitative,” pointing to what he called a “strong power differential.”
“I recognize that my sexual conduct in the past was selfish,” he said, adding, “I did not apply enough consideration, barely any I suppose really, to how that sex was affecting other people.”
The comments come as Brand faces multiple criminal charges in the UK, including rape, sexual assault, and indecent assault, all of which he denies. Several women have made allegations relating to incidents between 1999 and 2009.
One accuser, referred to as “Alice,” has alleged that she was in a relationship with Brand while still at school in 2006 and claimed he referred to her as “the child” and exerted control over her. She also alleged he arranged transport to collect her from school. According to reports, the complainant contacted his agent in 2020 to raise concerns.
Back in September 2023, Brand publicly rejected the allegations, saying they were “absolutely” untrue and maintaining that his relationships had been “absolutely, always consensual.”
As of February 2026, he has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His trial is currently scheduled to begin on October 12, 2026, with a pre-trial hearing set for June.
