The BBC is investigating five complaints about Russell Brand’s alleged behavior while working for the British broadcaster.
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In September, the comedian denied allegations of rape and sexual assault made against him in an investigation by the Sunday Times and Channel 4’s Dispatches. This prompted the BBC to investigate the star’s behavior while he hosted radio shows for the audiovisual company between 2006 and 2008. On Tuesday, the group revealed that they have received two complaints about the American Trip actor since the investigation began had, bringing the total to five.
Two people previously raised concerns about the 48-year-old comedian’s behavior in the workplace when he hosted shows on BBC 6 Music and Radio 2, and reiterated their concerns after he left the company. Another person filed a separate complaint in 2019 regarding the comedian’s alleged behavior at the BBC’s Los Angeles offices in 2008.
“Other people have also come forward to share their observations and express general concerns about this time. It was also clear from public comments that there were major concerns about the tone and content of some of Russell Brand’s broadcasts, Peter Johnston, the BBC’s director of complaints and editorial criticism, wrote in a summary of the investigation. I would like to emphasize the importance of understanding how complaints were handled at the time and whether the BBC’s actions were appropriate. Although my work is by no means complete and therefore no conclusions can be drawn, it appears that no disciplinary action was taken against Russell Brand during his work at the BBC in 2006-2008 prior to his departure from the BBC. »
London police are also investigating allegations of “non-recent” sexual offenses against him, while Thames Valley Police are investigating an allegation of harassment and stalking. In addition, Russell Brand has been charged in New York since the beginning of the month for alleged sexual assault by an anonymous woman.