Brand's Lawyer Says Channel 4 Film Harmed Justice

Russell Brand's defence barrister has told a London court that a 2023 Channel 4 documentary damaged the case against his client. Ian Winter said the film “poisoned the well of justice deliberately” in his closing argument at Southwark Crown Court.

A closing argument is the final speech each side makes before the jury, the group of members of the public who decide the verdict, is sent away. Deadline reported Winter's remarks. He said the film “fundamentally corrupted” the six women who have accused Brand.

Winter argued that the Dispatches film, and reporting in The Times, led those six women to go to police about allegations dating back about two decades. Brand denies all of the allegations.

Winter also said the documentary had a “truly devastating effect” on Brand. He pointed to Brand's evidence that he was banned from visiting his son in hospital after the film aired.

Brand faces three charges of rape, three counts of sexual assault and one count of attempted indecent assault. The charges are based on allegations from six women.

The trial began in October. When it opened, prosecutors described Brand as “ruthless”. A woman told the court that Brand had raped her. Brand gave evidence later that month, in his own defence.

The jury has now been sent away to reach a verdict. Until it does, the charges remain allegations that Brand denies.