The prosecution is expected to open its case against Russell Brand on Wednesday in his trial on rape and sexual assault charges, according to the BBC. A jury has been sworn in, The Guardian reports.
The comedian and actor appeared at court wearing a suit and sunglasses, and paused to speak with members of the press as he arrived, the BBC reported.
Brand faces allegations of sexual offences, The Independent reports. The trial is now under way, with prosecutors set to present the case against him following the jury's swearing-in, according to Sky News and RTE.ie.
Few further details of the proceedings were available in the initial reporting. The charges themselves and the specifics of the allegations are expected to be set out as the prosecution opens its case.
The case marks a significant moment for Brand, who built a long career in comedy, broadcasting and acting before the allegations emerged. The court proceedings will determine how the accusations against him are tested in a criminal trial.
Reporting on the opening of the trial came from several UK and Irish outlets, including the BBC, The Independent, The Guardian, Sky News and RTE.ie, all of which covered the jury being sworn in and the start of the prosecution's case.
What to watch next: the prosecution's opening statement, which is expected to lay out the allegations and the evidence the jury will hear.
