Summary of complaint
We received complaints from people who feel we have given too much coverage to allegations made against Russell Brand, and that some details included in our reporting have been too graphic.
Our response
Our coverage of the serious allegations made against Russell Brand in the joint investigation by The Times, Sunday Times and Channel 4’s Dispatches, and those which have emerged since, has legitimately sought to examine all aspects of this story and the issues it has highlighted.Β This has raised questions about the culture within the entertainment and media industry at the time, and led to political interventions, including from Downing Street, the Chair of the DCMS select committee, and the Foreign Secretary.Β We have made clear throughout our reporting that Russell Brand denies these allegations.Β
We have been mindful to report with sensitivity with regards to the alleged victims, and others who this story may have particular resonance for, signposting the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Action LineΒ website within our coverage.Β We realise some of the details related to this story are shocking, which is why we gave appropriate warnings ahead of graphic content. We have given careful considerationΒ to our reporting;Β all information included has been because we considered it was relevant and necessary to help our audience gain a full and accurate understanding of the accusations made against Brand.
The allegations relate to a time when Brand was at the height of his fame as a comedian, television and radio personality and Hollywood star;Β when his views on politics were being sought out by several media outlets.Β Β Broadcasters and productions companies, including the Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ and Channel 4, are now carrying out their own investigations into Brand’s alleged conduct whilst working for them.Β We have looked at the considerations this story has highlighted about power dynamics within production companies and the wider media.
This is a developing story with the Met Police having now received a report of alleged sexual assault by Russell Brand, and other allegations being made, which we will continue to follow.Β We believe our coverage of this story has been proportionate, offering fair and sensitive analysis of the issues at hand.Β