Russell Brand, the renowned comedian, has recently been accused of exposing himself to a woman and laughing about it on his BBC Radio 2 show. This alleged incident took place in 2008 when the woman was working for a media company located in the same building as the BBC’s Los Angeles office.
According to BBC News, Brand was recorded laughing on air with his co-host, Matt Morgan, who mentioned that Brand had “showed his willy to a lady.” Matt Morgan later stated that he was unaware of the nature of the encounter until now.
The incident came to light when the woman shared her story in an interview with Nomia Iqbal, the North America correspondent for BBC News. She revealed that the incident occurred in June 2008 when Brand and his team were at the building, pre-recording an episode of The Russell Brand Show for BBC Radio 2.
The woman explained that she was in the bathroom searching for sinus medication when she felt someone behind her. To her surprise, when she turned around, she found herself face-to-face with Brand exposing himself. He then engaged in conversation with her, making inappropriate comments. Eventually, he put his exposed genitals away and left the bathroom.
The woman admitted feeling stunned by the incident initially and even laughed about it, but soon realized the seriousness of the situation. She texted a BBC employee in the radio studio about what happened, and they confirmed that Brand had been discussing the incident on his show.
The BBC has responded to the allegations, stating that they are deeply sorry to hear about the incident and are conducting a thorough review as part of a wider investigation into Brand’s behavior at the BBC. They have also expressed the desire to speak with the woman and anyone else who may have information about the incident.
The new accusation follows the release of allegations published in the U.K. newspapers, The Times and The Sunday Times, as well as Channel 4’s Dispatches program, which detailed rape, sexual assault, and abuse accusations against Brand by several women between 2006 and 2013.
Brand has denied these allegations through a video posted on social media, categorically refuting the claims made against him. The Metropolitan Police in London are currently reviewing a new claim of sexual assault against Brand, relating to an incident in 2003.
The consequences of these allegations have already impacted Brand’s career. Two of his YouTube sponsors have announced the discontinuation of their partnerships with him, and YouTube itself has suspended his ability to monetize his video channel.
These are serious allegations that highlight the need for everyone to be accountable for their actions. If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, please contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org for support.
