Russell Brand Forcefully Denies Charges As He Gives Evidence During Rape Trial

Russell Brand has taken the stand this morning as his defense in the trial at Southwark Crown Court begins.

Wearing an open white shirt and blazer, Brand was called forwards, said his name and forcefully denied all allegations put to him by his lawyer Ian Winter. He replied “no” to each charge loudly as he was asked.

He was then asked about his level of fame at the time of the allegations and was asked about his meeting ex-wife Katy Perry, and how this impacted his fame.

“Staggering fame” he responded to the question of whether his meeting Perry brought about a sea change in his life.

Brand faces three charges of rape, three counts of sexual assault and now one of attempted indecent assault, reduced from indecent assult, based on allegations made by six women. His team has today started setting out its defense. Deadline has been reporting daily from a live video feed of the courtroom since the trial began.