Russell Brand was described as a ruthless "sexual predator" by the prosecution at the start of his trial for rape and sexual assault on Wednesday.

The 51-year-old actor and comedian faces three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault, and one of indecent assault. The allegations, brought forward by six female complainants, reportedly span a 10-year period between 1999 and 2009. Brand denies all charges.

Riel Karmy-Jones KC, for the prosecution, informed Southwark Crown Court in London that the complainants did not know each other and came forward independently. The prosecutor characterized Brand's alleged offending as "indiscriminate and voracious," stating that his desire for sexual contact was not deterred by the identity or actions of the women involved.

The prosecution outlined that Brand could be charming and likeable when seeking something, but also demanding and entitled. Jurors were told that after alleged encounters, he would often appear indifferent or simply leave the situation without acknowledgment.

Details of the alleged offences were presented to the jury. The first complainant reportedly met Brand in 1999 before he was famous and alleges he raped her after she spoke to him at a Labour Party conference fringe event. When questioned by police about this, Brand reportedly stated he did not remember the incident if it happened and denied non-consensual activity.

The second complainant, who worked for MTV, alleges Brand indecently assaulted her. She described him as having a "desperate, wild-eyed look" when he asked her to accompany him into a toilet. The third complainant claims Brand orally raped her in a toilet in 2004 after meeting her at a party, and that he grabbed and squeezed her breasts within a minute of their meeting.

Brand's wife, Laura, was present at court with him on Wednesday. The trial is expected to continue with further evidence and testimony.

The case has drawn significant public attention, with the opening day of the trial featuring extensive reporting from Southwark Crown Court. The prosecution's opening statements set a stark tone for the proceedings, detailing the alleged pattern of behavior over a decade.