Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has stated she believes sexual abuse is likely still occurring within the media industry. Speaking to, she warned that institutional failings remain a barrier for those attempting to report misconduct, suggesting that little has improved regarding how public bodies and media organizations handle allegations. Following the Brand trial and cancellation of Channel 4 reality show Married at First Sight after revealed rape allegations, nandy was asked whether she believed there was still exploitation and abuse within the media industry.
Addressing the situation following the recent conviction of Russell Brand, Nandy stated, “Hand on heart, I can’t say to you as the culture secretary that this is not happening today.
In fact, if I had to wager, I would say it is. The minister confirmed that since joining the government, she has been approached by multiple people within the industry who have come forward with their own experiences of abuse.
Brand was found guilty of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault following a four-week trial. The legal proceedings addressed allegations from six women concerning incidents that occurred between 1999 and 2009. The case brought renewed scrutiny to the industry’s historical treatment of those who attempted to speak out against influential figures.
Nandy emphasized that the cost for women who challenge powerful figures in media or politics remains high, exacerbated by precarious employment contracts and a lack of institutional support. “Time is up, it really is time for the media industry to take this seriously,” she stated, noting that she sees little meaningful change in how these organizations support survivors.
During his career, Brand rose to prominence as a stand-up comedian and host for various high-profile programs, including Big Brother’s Big Mouth, alongside roles at Radio 2 and 6 Music. Prosecutors detailed how Brand leveraged his fame to coerce women into sexual activity during the period in question. Starting his career as a stand-up comedian, Brand became a household name as a host of TV shows such as Big Brother’s Big Mouth, and with his own radio programmes on stations such as Radio 2 and 6 Music.
In response to the verdict, reiterated its apology to staff members who felt unable to report concerns about Brand during his tenure between 2006 and 2008 because he was perceived as “too influential” at the time. A spokesperson for the corporation stated that there is “no place for the abuse of power” and emphasized the need for a collaborative industry effort to ensure concerns are taken seriously.
Channel 4, which broadcast the programs associated with Brand during that era, also issued a statement acknowledging the “profound impact of these crimes.”
Despite her criticisms, Nandy highlighted as an “exemplar” for joining the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority, a body designed to protect whistleblowers. She urged other media organizations to adopt similar measures to foster a safer environment for staff.
