Russell Brand Admits To “Exploitative” Sexual Encounter With 16-Year-Old

Russell Brand acknowledged having sexual relations with a 16-year-old when he was 30 years old, calling his past conduct “exploitative” during an appearance on The Megyn Kelly Show. The comedian said the encounter was legal under UK consent laws but reflected on the power differential involved. “When you’re a famous man that has the ability to attract women that I had at that time, I think involves exploitation,” Brand stated. He described his younger self as immature and admitted his sexual behavior was selfish without considering its impact on others. Brand currently faces multiple charges including rape and sexual assault in UK courts, stemming from allegations by several women between 1999 and 2005. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and consistently denied wrongdoing.