YouTube suspends monetisation of Russell Brand’s channel for ‘violating policy’

YouTube has suspended the monetisation of Russell Brand’s channel for “violating our Creator Responsibility policy”.

It comes after the comedian and actor faced accusations of rape and sexual assault from women, with the Met Police opening an investigation into one allegation. He has denied the accusations.

The Google-owned tech giant said that it had suspended Brand’s channel from the YouTube Partner Program “following serious allegations against the creator. This action means the channel is no longer able to monetise on YouTube”.

The decision applies to all channels that may be owned or operated by the 48-year-old, it added.

A ‘Thanks’ button which allowed viewers to donate money to Mr Brand’s channel was removed from YouTube on Tuesday morning.

On Sunday, the Metropolitan Police received a report of an alleged sexual assault in Soho in 2003 following news reports of allegations against Mr Brand.

Four alleged victims also spoke to reporters in a joint investigation by Channel 4 Dispatches, The Times and The Sunday Times.

Meanwhile, BBC Director-General Tim Davie faces questions over whether the broadcaster could have done more to investigate claims of inappropriate conduct made against Mr Brand.

(This story is being updated)