British comedian Josie Long claimed Russell Brand physically assaulted her backstage over twenty years ago before he received a prison sentence for rape and sexual assault.
“I actually had an experience with Russell Brand that I was interviewed anonymously in the Times for,” Long said on the Monday episode of the political talk show Novara Live, according to Page Six.
“Backstage, he would bite my face, and I would tell him I didn’t like it, and he would chase me around,” she claimed.
Long admitted she giggled about the behavior at the time because she was 22 and overwhelmed. She said that it took a lot for him to stop.
Backstage Assault Claims
“It’s funny now to reckon with that and be like, ‘Oh, that was physical assault, wasn’t it?'” Long told Page Six.
The 44-year-old comedian said that the comedy culture was toxic during that period. She expressed gratitude for recent shifts in the industry.
“I am very grateful for the inroads that have been made by everyone else,” Long said on Novara Live. She added that she looks forward to more men facing exposure for past behavior.
Long issued a direct warning to others in the industry. “Please let me say this very clearly: All other misogynists in comedy, we are coming for you, and I hope you never sleep again,” she said.
Russell Brand Sentence
Brand was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault in a London court. A judge sentenced the 51-year-old entertainer to 10 years and six months in prison.
The criminal case involved six accusers and offenses spanning from 2004 to 2009, Us Magazine reported. Brand entered a not guilty plea and denied all allegations related to the trial.
Brand is currently incarcerated at HMP Wandsworth in London. Senior solicitor Kally Sahota told Page Six that the actor is expected to transfer to a different facility in a few weeks based on safety, security, and rehabilitation needs.
Ongoing Police Investigations
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Brand remains under investigation over two additional allegations of rape. Two unidentified women brought forward these separate claims.
“The suspect has previously been interviewed under caution in connection with the allegations,” a Metropolitan Police spokesperson told Us Magazine on Monday. “Files have been submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service in relation to both complainants.”
Detectives remain in contact with prosecutors as inquiries continue. Meanwhile, another woman in the United States has come forward with claims she was victimized by Brand, according to Page Six.
The alleged victim is currently in communication with high-profile lawyer Gloria Allred regarding her legal options.
Questions About the Investigation
What offenses was Russell Brand convicted of in court?
Brand was convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault following a trial in a London court involving six accusers.
Where is Russell Brand currently serving his sentence?
Brand is currently incarcerated at HMP Wandsworth in London, though senior solicitor Kally Sahota stated he is expected to move to a different facility within a few weeks.
Are there any additional active investigations involving Brand?
The Metropolitan Police confirmed that Brand remains under investigation regarding two additional allegations of rape made by unidentified women, with files submitted to the Crown Prosecution Service.
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