BBC launches ‘urgent’ investigation into ‘issues raised’ following Russell Brand allegations

The BBC has launched an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior and grooming made against Russell Brand.

The 48-year-old comedian presented radio shows for the channel between 2006 and 2008.

A spokesperson for the company told Express.co.uk: “The documentary and associated reports contained serious allegations spanning several years.

“Russell Brand worked on BBC radio programs between 2006 and 2008 and we are urgently investigating the issues raised.”

The news comes after production company Banijay UK, which ran Brand-led Big Brother spin-off shows in the early 2000s, launched an investigation after similar allegations of misconduct were made over his time on Channel 4.

A company statement said: “In light of the very serious allegations… relating to alleged serious misconduct by Russell Brand produced by Endomol between 2004 and 2005, Banijay UK has launched an urgent internal investigation.

“We also ask that anyone who feels affected by Brand’s behavior while working on these productions to contact us in confidence.”

A Channel 4 spokesperson said the organization was “appalled” by the allegations.

They added: “We are determined to understand the full nature of what happened. We have carried out extensive documentary research and have found no evidence to suggest that the alleged incidents were brought to the attention of Channel 4 .

“We will continue to review this situation in light of any further information we receive, including the stories of those affected. We have asked the production company which produced the programs for Channel 4 to investigate these allegations and to report its findings to us in an appropriate and satisfactory manner.

“Channel 4 is also conducting its own internal investigation, and we encourage anyone with knowledge of such behavior to contact us directly.”

The comic was accused of sexual assault and abusive and predatory behavior, allegedly occurring between 2006 and 2013 in a Channel 4 Dispatches documentary broadcast last night (September 16).

The Metropolitan Police said: “We are aware of media reports of a series of sexual assault allegations.

“As of now, we have not received any report on this matter. If anyone believes they have been the victim of a sexual assault, no matter how long ago it happened, we encourage them to contact the police. »

Russell appeared on stage at Wembley, west London, on September 16, telling his audience that there were certain things he “can’t discuss”.

In an earlier statement, Russell strongly denied the allegations and claimed in a viral video that all of his relationships were “consensual.”