UK comedian Russell Brand in London court for rape trial start

Jury selection took place on Monday for the ⁠trial of British actor ⁠and comedian Russell Brand over alleged ⁠historical crimes including rape and other sexual offences.

Brand, 51, once one of Britain’s most high-profile broadcasters and former husband of US singer Katy Perry, faces three counts of rape, three counts of sexual assault and ‌one count of indecent assault relating to six women from 1999 to 2009.

Brand has denied all the accusations.

He arrived at London’s Southwark Crown Court wearing sunglasses and accompanied by his wife. During the hearing he sat in the dock, mostly staring straight ahead or with his eyes closed.