The rape and sexual assault trial of British comedian and actor Russell Brand began this week at Southwark Crown Court in central London. Brand, 51, faces three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault, and one count of indecent assault related to allegations made by six women. The alleged incidents are said to have occurred over a decade, from 1999 to 2009. Brand has denied all the charges.

Jury selection started on Monday, with a warning from presiding judge Mr Justice Bennathan for jurors to disregard any media coverage or public opinions concerning Brand or the allegations. On Tuesday, twelve jurors—eight men and four women—were sworn in, along with one reserve juror. The trial is expected to last approximately six weeks, with the prosecution scheduled to present its opening statements on Wednesday morning.

The judge instructed jurors not to discuss the case outside court or conduct any independent research during the trial. "Heaven knows what’s out there," he remarked, cautioning that jurors could only review external information after returning their verdicts.

Brand arrived at court shortly after 9:20 a.m. on Tuesday, dressed in a double-breasted grey suit, an unbuttoned shirt with a long tie, brown boots, and sunglasses. He acknowledged the photographers and press with the words "blessed, thank you very much" before entering the courthouse. He was accompanied by a security guard, but unlike the first day of the proceedings, his wife, Laura Gallacher, was not present.

The charges against Brand encompass various allegations, including an accusation that he raped one woman in a Bournemouth hotel room during a Labour Party conference, as well as claims that he groped a television worker and forced her to perform a sexual act in a bathroom. Additionally, prosecutors allege Brand kissed and grabbed a radio station worker without consent.

Russell Brand first gained prominence in the 2000s as a British television personality, hosting high-profile events such as the 2007 Brit Awards, Comic Relief, and the MTV Video Music Awards. He also presented his own show on BBC Radio 2. Later, Brand transitioned to Hollywood films, appearing in productions including the 2010 comedy "Get Him to the Greek" and the 2012 musical "Rock of Ages." He was married to American singer Katy Perry from 2010 to 2012.

The trial continues as the court prepares to hear evidence and testimonies from both prosecution and defense in the weeks ahead.