The comedian says all sexual contact was consensual and suggested his accusers 'reimagined' the encounters after seeing media reports of his alleged sexual misconduct.

The comedian was described as a 'calculated and manipulative' rapist who spent a decade assaulting women, treating them as a 'means to an end' to satisfy his 'insatiable desire'.

Just before 9.30am yesterday, Russell Brand was to be found standing in the reception area of Southwark Crown Court, having undergone the first daily ordeal of his rape trial.

Follow the case the world is watching with the Daily Mail's award-winning Trial podcast.

Brand will appear at Southwark Crown Court for the next six to eight weeks where the jury will hear from the prosecution and defence.

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