Brand's Plymouth show axed

City's women's champion says gig "inappropriate"

Russell Brand won't be presenting his one-man show in Plymouth on Friday as planned.

The remaining dates of his tour have been postponed following accusations of serious sexual assault against him.

The news came hours after Plymouth’s Violence Against Women and Girls champion (VAWG) called for the gig at Plymouth Pavilions, which was due to take place on Friday, to be cancelled.

Mr Brand has been accused of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse over a seven-year period while he was at the height of his fame. He strenuously denies accusations from four women.

A Channel 4 Dispatches programme was broadcast at the weekend following a joint investigation with the Times and Sunday Times into the performer’s alleged treatment of women.

It detailed allegations including one who was a child when Russell Brand allegedly began a sexual relationship with her.

Following the programme, Plymouth-based support group Trevi Women & Children’s Charity cut ties with the 48-year-old comedian, saying it is “deeply saddened and upset” about the allegations.

Speaking at Plymouth City Council’s full council meeting on Monday, VAWG champion Cllr Zoe Reilly said: “I believe it is inappropriate for Russell Brand to perform this show here in Plymouth.

“Plymouth has made huge efforts to tackle violence against women and girls (VAWG) and is a beacon for VAWG discussions.

“If in any other job an allegation of rape or sexual assault had been made where the alleged perpetrator still has access to women and the ability to exert power over women in general, then that person would be suspended pending further investigation. In my view that is the equivalent of cancelling or at the very least postponing the show.”

A statement from the the promoters of Mr Brand's tour said: "We are postponing these few remaining addiction charity fundraiser shows, we don't like doing it - but we know you'll understand."