Chris Brown Pleads Not Guilty to UK Assault Charges, Set for 2026 Trial
Singer faces charges linked to 2023 London nightclub incident; fans rally as court allows tour to continue
American R&B star Chris Brown appeared at Southwark Crown Court in London on Friday, where he formally pleaded not guilty to additional charges stemming from an alleged nightclub assault in February 2023.
The charges include assault occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon, reportedly a bottle, during an altercation at Tape, an exclusive members-only club in London’s Hanover Square. Brown, who was previously charged with attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, also denied that allegation in an earlier court appearance.
The 35-year-old singer stood in the dock alongside co-defendant Omololu Akinlolu, 39, also a U.S. national, who entered similar not guilty pleas. Both men are expected to stand trial in October 2026.
Despite the pending legal proceedings, Judge Tony Baumgartner has permitted Brown to continue his international tour, which began on June 8 in Amsterdam. The artist remains out on £5 million ($6.7 million) bail, which he will forfeit if he fails to appear for future court dates.
Fans filled the courtroom gallery during Friday’s session, cheering and shouting words of support. Brown acknowledged them with a wave and a kiss before leaving the courtroom.
