Russell Brand Begins Rape Trial at Southwark Crown Court

Russell Brand arrived at Southwark Crown Court on Monday as his rape and sexual assault trial began, with the comedian and actor facing charges involving six women over allegations said to have occurred between 1999 and 2009, according to BBC.

BBC reported that Brand, 51, has been charged with three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault and one allegation of indecent assault. He has pleaded not guilty during pre-trial hearings.

The trial is expected to begin with jury selection and could last up to 10 weeks, according to BBC. Brand arrived at court wearing a navy suit and sunglasses and was accompanied by his wife Laura.

A large media presence gathered at the court for the start of proceedings, BBC reported. The case is being heard at Southwark Crown Court as the legal process moves forward.

Brand became known as a stand-up comedian before gaining wider recognition as a television and radio presenter, including hosting Big Brother's Big Mouth and programmes on BBC Radio 2 and 6 Music.

He later developed a Hollywood acting career with roles in films including Forgetting Sarah Marshall and Get Him To The Greek, before moving into podcasting in recent years, according to BBC.