Russell Brand found guilty of rape and sexual assault

Judge says actor and comedian faces significant custodial term' after being convicted of raping a woman and assaulting three others

Russell Brand has been found guilty of raping a fan and sexually assaulting three women, ending a years-long legal saga that has raised questions about how he was able to commit his crimes at the height of his fame.

Brand, 51, was described during his trial as a ruthless, calculated and manipulative sexual predator. He was accused of raping women in a hotel room, in a bar toilet and at his luxury London townhouse. He sexually assaulted women in front of his entourage at their workplaces, at a radio station and TV studio.