The actor and comedian was charged with sexual assault and rape by London’s Metropolitan Police. Get updates on the situation.

Brand is due to answer U.K. rape and sexual assault charges in court on May 2 Russell Brand has responded to new rape charges brought against him by British authorities, admitting he was a "sex addict" in his younger years but steadfastly denying the sex offense charges he now faces.

Far right political commentator Russell Brand has been charged with rape, indecent assault, oral rape, and sexual assault in his native U.K. According to the Metropolitan Police, who announced the charges Friday,