Former comedian Russell Brand has appeared at Southwark Crown Court, charged with two counts of rape and sexual assault dating back to 2009. 

Brand, who has declared himself a born-again Christian, clutched a Bible in his hands, which bore various bookmark tabs.

The media personality, who has made a name for himself as a commentator on issues relating to US politics, wore a low-plunging shirt exposing his chest, a fedora, sunglasses and a cross necklace. 

He has pleaded not guilty to both charges, which allegedly occurred in London. 

Last year, Brand also pleaded not guilty to two counts of rape, one of indecent assault and two of sexual assault. The charges related to four women, spanning London and Bournemouth from 1999 to 2005. The charges followed a 2023 Channel 4 documentary alleging that he had acted inappropriately with women behind-the-scenes of TV and comedy circuits, between 2006 and 2013. 

Mr Brand previously told social media followers that he has never engaged in non-consensual sex acts. 

In 2024, he was baptised in the River Thames by Christian wilderness explorer and author, Bear Grylls.