![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/20\/590x\/secondary\/Russell-Brand-The-BBC-has-responded-against-claims-4963572.jpg?r=1694888669954\")
<\/p>\n
Brand was first hired by the BBC in April 2006 before he was moved to Radio 2 later that year.<\/p>\n
Many controversies were raised which led to the “Sachgate scandal” in which, in October 2008, Brand and co-presenter Jonathan Ross prank-called actor Andrew Sachs and left a lewd message on his answer phone.<\/p>\n
However, it’s been claimed by some the BBC should have already known about Brand’s alleged behaviour.<\/p>\n
In response, the BBC has issued a statement arguing the company takes issues “seriously”.<\/p>\n
A spokesperson for the BBC stated: “Russell Brand worked for a number of different organisations, of which the BBC was one.<\/p>\n
“As is well known, Russell Brand left the BBC after a serious editorial breach in 2008 \u2013 as did the then-controller of Radio 2.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe circumstances of the breach were reviewed in detail at the time.<\/p>\n
“We hope that demonstrates that the BBC takes issues seriously and is prepared to act.<\/p>\n
![](\"https:\/\/cdn.images.express.co.uk\/img\/dynamic\/20\/590x\/secondary\/Russell-Brand-Some-have-claimed-Russell-s-behaviour-was-an-open-secret-4963573.jpg?r=1694888670006\")
<\/p>\n
Don’t miss… <\/strong> We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info<\/p>\n \u201cIndeed, the BBC has, over successive years, evolved its approach to how it manages talent and how it deals with complaints or issues raised.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have clear expectations around conduct at work, these are set out in employment contracts, the BBC Values, the BBC Code of Conduct and the Anti-Bullying and Harassment Policy.<\/p>\n \u201cWe will always listen to people if they come forward with any concerns, on any issue related to any individual working at the BBC, past or present.\u201d<\/p>\n As part of a lengthy statement on his YouTube, Brand commented: \u201cAmidst this litany of astonishing, rather baroque attacks are some very serious allegations that I absolutely refute\u201d.<\/p>\n
Russell Brand’s statement in full ahead of show as he’s accused of rape[STATEMENT ] <\/strong>
Russell Brand accused of rape and sexual assault as ‘four women’ come forward[LATEST] <\/strong>
Inside Russell Brand’s relationship history from Geri Halliwell to Katy Perry[INSIDE LOOK] <\/strong><\/p>\n