Russell Brand has openly admitted to having a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old when he was 30 years old, describing the encounter as “exploitative” despite it being legal under UK law at the time. The British comedian made these revelations during an interview on The Megyn Kelly Show, where he responded to criticism regarding his past behaviour.
He highlighted that although the age of consent in the United Kingdom is 16, his perspective on the situation has since changed. Brand stated, “I did sleep with a 16-year-old when I was 30,” adding that he was “a very different person” back then and considered himself immature.
Reflecting on his past actions, Brand acknowledged a recurring pattern of conduct that he now regrets. He emphasized that even when relationships are consensual, significant disparities in age and power can render them problematic. “Consensual sex… when there is a strong power differential, I think, involves exploitation,” he said, admitting his behaviour was “selfish” and lacked empathy for others.
In a significant development, Brand is currently facing multiple criminal charges. In April 2025, he was charged with rape, indecent assault, and sexual assault involving four women, with alleged incidents occurring between 1999 and 2005. Later that year, additional charges, including rape and sexual assault, were brought forward relating to incidents in 2009.
Brand has pleaded not guilty to all allegations. His trial, initially set to begin in June at Southwark Crown Court, has been postponed and is now scheduled to commence in October.
