What explosive claims about Russell Brand’s past sexual conduct are sparking outrage now?

Russell Brand admitted to past sexual conduct he now calls 'exploitative,' sparking backlash

Comedian and actor Russell Brand has stirred conversation following a candid interview in which he opened up about aspects of his past behavior and personal growth.

Speaking on The Megyn Kelly Show, Brand addressed criticism directed at him and acknowledged that some of his earlier actions lacked consideration for others. He described his past self as immature, saying he has since developed a different understanding of relationships and responsibility.

During the conversation, Brand spoke about a past sexual relationship with a 16-year-old when he was 30. He pointed out that the age of consent in the United Kingdom is 16, but said that legality did not necessarily make the situation appropriate. Reflecting on the significant age and power gap, he said such dynamics can be problematic.

“I think it is exploitative,” Brand said, adding that even consensual relationships may involve exploitation when there is a clear imbalance of power, particularly when one person is a public figure with influence. He admitted that his behavior at the time was “selfish” and that he gave little thought to how it might have affected the other person.

Russel Brand admits to sleeping with a 16-year-old when he was 30 pic.twitter.com/myLKVzzVhz

— Catch Up (@CatchUpFeed) April 23, 2026

The interview comes amid ongoing legal challenges for Brand. In April 2025, he was charged with rape, indecent assault and sexual assault relating to four separate women in alleged incidents between 1999 and 2005. Additional charges, including rape and sexual assault, were brought in December 2025 in connection with alleged incidents from 2009. Brand has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

His trial, originally scheduled to begin in June, was set to take place at Southwark Crown Court but has since been postponed. Proceedings are now expected to begin on October 12.