Russell Brand opens up about having sex with a 16-year-old when he was 30. In the Megyn Kelly interview he explains his behavior – while his criminal trial is ongoing in London.
British entertainer and conspiracy theorist Russell Brand was a guest of US journalist Megyn Kelly and spoke openly about controversial aspects of his past. The focus was on a sexual relationship that Brand had with a 16-year-old at the age of 30.
In the conversation, he placed this relationship in a legal, cultural and personal context. The appearance comes during a phase of ongoing public criticism, marked by serious allegations and ongoing legal proceedings.
An interview in the shadow of serious allegations
Russell Brand has been at the center of an intense debate for months. Several women have accused him of various forms of sexual violence, including rape, sexual assault and coercion. The allegations, some of which date back to 1999, were first made public in September 2023 through extensive media research.
A total of six women accused the podcaster. Brand denies all allegations and speaks of consensual relationships. The allegations still had noticeable consequences: collaborations were ended, appearances canceled, and platforms temporarily checked his content.
At the same time, court proceedings are ongoing in London. Brand pleaded not guilty in May 2025 and again in February 2026. The subject includes allegations of rape, forced oral sex and sexual assault. The trial was postponed due to its complexity and the preparation of the parties involved; a new date is scheduled for October 12th.
The statements at Megyn Kelly
Against this background, Brand used his appearance on “The Megyn Kelly Show” to explain his point of view. Specifically, it was about a sexual relationship with a 16-year-old, which he confirmed. At the time, Brand was 30 years old. He explained that in Europe the minimum age for sexual relationships is 16 and that he did not perceive his behavior as problematic within this legal framework at the time.
According to the underlying research, the woman in question stated that she had dated Brand when she was 16 years old. At that time, according to “Stern,” he said to her: “I don’t give a shit if you’re 12. I just need to know where I stand legally.”
Law, morality and self-criticism
In the interview, Brand avoided a clear moral assessment of his behavior at the time, but admitted individual mistakes. Looking back, he described himself as an “immature 30-year-old”, but at the same time recognized the existing power imbalance and the associated problems:
“When I said I was innocent, what I meant was that I had consensual sex with a lot of women. You can argue that it’s inappropriate, but the minimum age for sexual relations is an important thing.”
He went on to say that his life situation at the time – characterized by addiction and celebrity – gave him “an opportunity for endless harmony”. However, he immediately qualified this statement: “That doesn’t mean it’s right. It’s a sin.” Elsewhere he was more self-critical: “Sex is a powerful thing and I used it wrong. And I now understand that there are consequences for that.”
He also addressed his upcoming trial and linked it to religious beliefs: “God has the final say on what is right. Soon I will have a trial where I will have the opportunity to achieve justice. So will the people who feel hurt by me. I have no problem praying for absolute justice and the best outcome for everyone.”
Political positioning and public impact
In recent years, Brand has increasingly positioned himself as a right-wing conservative and Christian commentator, podcaster and conspiracy theorist. Kelly herself, known for her confrontational interviews and her closeness to Donald Trump, allowed Brand to speak at length. The focus was particularly on the question of how he now views his behavior back then and whether he takes responsibility. The appearance also served as a platform for Brand to present his political positions.
