YouTube has taken the significant step of suspending the monetisation of comedian Russell Brand’s channel following serious allegations of rape, sexual assault, and emotional abuse made against him by four women. These accusations, which have sent shockwaves through the entertainment world, reportedly date back to incidents between 2006 and 2013.

The investigation into these allegations was spearheaded by The Sunday Times, The Times, and Channel 4 Dispatches, shedding light on the allegations that have come to the forefront recently. Additionally, the Metropolitan Police has revealed that it has received yet another complaint of sexual assault, which is alleged to have occurred in Soho, central London, in 2003.

Russell Brand vehemently denies these accusations of rape and sexual assault and has maintained that all his relationships have been consensual.

YouTube made its announcement on Tuesday, stating that Russell Brand’s channel would no longer be able to generate income from his YouTube videos. This action was taken in accordance with the company’s “Creator Responsibility policy,” which aims to safeguard its community.

In a statement issued by the video platform, they emphasised their commitment to protecting their users, employees, and ecosystem. The statement reads, “We have suspended monetisation on Russell Brand’s channel for violating our Creator Responsibility policy. If a creator’s off-platform behavior harms our users, employees, or ecosystem, we take action to protect the community.”

Importantly, this decision applies to all channels that may be owned or operated by the 48-year-old comedian.

The impact of these allegations extends beyond the digital realm. Russell Brand’s remaining shows on his Bipolarisation tour have been postponed in light of the unfolding situation. A performance initially scheduled for Tuesday at the Theatre Royal Windsor in Berkshire was among those postponed. The show’s promoters expressed their reluctance to take this step but emphasised the necessity, stating, “We are postponing these few remaining addiction charity fundraiser shows, we don’t like doing it – but we know you’ll understand.”

Further performances had been scheduled for later this month at The Pavilions in Plymouth on Friday and The Civic At The Halls in Wolverhampton next Thursday. The future of these shows remains uncertain as the situation continues to develop.