Russell Brand is back in the spotlight after admitting in a new interview that he had a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old when he was 30—while maintaining that he did not break the law or commit wrongdoing.
The revelation came during an appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show, where Brand addressed the situation directly. “The plain fact of it is… the age of consent is 16,” he said, referencing laws in the U.K., where he is from.
He confirmed the encounter but framed it in legal terms, while also reflecting on his mindset at the time. “I was an immature 30-year-old,” he added.
At the same time, Brand acknowledged the imbalance that can exist in those situations, particularly given his fame during that period. “When there is a strong power differential… I think it is exploitative,” he said.
He also admitted that his past behavior lacked awareness, stating, “My sexual conduct in the past was selfish… I did not apply enough consideration… to how that sex was affecting other people.”
The comments arrive as Brand continues to fight multiple criminal charges in the U.K. tied to allegations of rape and sexual assault. Those cases stem from claims made by several women involving incidents alleged to have taken place between 1999 and 2009.
Brand has pleaded not guilty and has consistently denied all allegations.
“I absolutely refute” the claims, he said in a previous public response, maintaining that his relationships were consensual.
In earlier statements, he described that period of his life as highly promiscuous but insisted he was “always transparent” about his conduct.
Legal proceedings are ongoing. Brand was recently granted bail after a brief appearance at Westminster Magistrates' Court, with the case set to continue at Southwark Crown Court later this year.
A trial that was expected earlier this year has been pushed back to October.
If you or someone you know has been affected by rape or sexual assault, help is available. In the U.S., confidential support is offered through the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (4673) or at rainn.org.
