Russell Brand has captured headlines once again, opening up about his previous marriage to Katy Perry just hours before being charged with serious rape allegations. The 50-year-old comedian, who is currently under investigation following allegations made in September 2023, has been charged with a series of sexual offences, including rape and assault. Before the Metropolitan Police disclosed the charges, Brand spoke on his podcast 'Stay Free with Russell Brand', where he discussed his relationship with the pop sensation.

In the episode aired on April 3, he remarked: "What can I tell you is, when I was married to Katy Perry, she's like a not entirely normal, because she's an extraordinary, massive star but she's not weird or off key. And wasn't involved in anything nefarious, as far as I could tell." He expressed respect for Perry, saying: "The reasons that a marriage didn't work are the normal human reasons marriages don't work, and I have nothing but respect for her."

Brand also touched upon their differing views: "I obviously disagree with her political views." He compared this to disagreements with his current wife, Laura Brand: "But I probably disagree with some of my wife's political views, my beloved wife, Laura Brand's political views. So you know, you always disagree with people, don't ya?", reports the Mirror.

Following the release of the podcast episode, it was confirmed by The Metropolitan Police that Brand faces charges related to incidents involving four separate women. Brand is facing allegations of raping a woman in the Bournemouth area back in 1999, and an indecent assault charge in London's Westminster area two years later. In the same area, another woman claimed she was orally raped and sexually assaulted in 2004, while yet another woman alleged sexual assault between 2004 and 2005.

Detective Superintendent Andy Furphy stated: "The women who have made reports continue to receive support from specially trained officers." He added: "The Met's investigation remains open and detectives ask anyone who has been affected by this case, or anyone who has any information, to come forward and speak with police. A dedicated team of investigators is available via email at CIT@met.police.uk. Support is also available by contacting the independent charity, Rape Crisis at 24/7 Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Line."

Brand is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on May 2. Before the accusations in the investigation by The Times and Channel 4, that are alleged to have taken place between 2006 and 2013, were made public, Brand addressed them in a video posted to social media in which he denied them.

He said: “I’ve received two extremely disturbing letters, or a letter and an email, one from a mainstream media TV company, one from a newspaper, listing a litany of extremely egregious and aggressive attacks. But amidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute.”