UK Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has stated that the media industry has not adequately addressed celebrity sexual abuse, arguing that institutions continue to fail women who come forward with allegations. Nandy’s comments follow the recent conviction of comedian Russell Brand for rape and sexual assault.
Brand was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault by a jury at Southwark Crown Court. He was acquitted of two further rape charges and one allegation of attempted indecent assault. The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing into two additional rape allegations against Brand.
During interviews, Nandy told the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg that she does not believe significant changes have occurred in how media and public life institutions handle accusations of abuse. She highlighted the power imbalances within industries like politics and media, the prevalence of short-term contracts, and the importance of reputation for career advancement. "Speaking up has a very heavy cost," Nandy said, emphasizing that "time is up, it really is time for the media industry to take this seriously."
Brand, who gained fame as a stand-up comedian, TV and radio host, and Hollywood actor, allegedly preyed on women he encountered. Court documents revealed that his victims described being forced into sexual activity, sometimes within moments of meeting him. He reportedly pursued a goal of sleeping with 5,000 women.
One of the ongoing police investigations involves a woman who claims Brand assaulted her when she was 16 and he was 30. Brand is awaiting sentencing for the convictions.