Russell Brand producer asked to step back after assault verdict

Jack Bayles, head of comedy at the independent TV production company Various Artists Limited (VAL), has been asked to step back from his position. The decision follows the conviction of Russell Brand, with whom Bayles has had past associations. Brand was found guilty of rape and sexual assault by a jury at Southwark Crown Court.

Bayles, who had been involved in the production of BBC sitcoms Such Brave Girls and Push through his work at VAL, will no longer be working on these projects. The company stated they are considering the verdict and the events surrounding the trial.

Court proceedings and allegations

The court heard evidence that in 2009, Bayles and Gareth Roy, another associate of Brand's team, compelled a female staffer to give Brand a massage. During this incident, Brand allegedly thrust his head into the staffer's groin. The staffer told the trial she was repulsed by the situation and complained to her Channel 4 employers afterwards.

Brand, 51, faces a significant prison sentence after being convicted of one count of rape and three counts of sexual assault. He was acquitted of two further rape charges and one allegation of attempted indecent assault.

In a statement, Various Artists Limited said: “We have asked Jack Bayles to step back from the company while we consider the verdict and events surrounding the trial. Our thoughts, though, are primarily with every one of Brand’s victims at this time.” The BBC referred inquiries to VAL.

Bayles stated to The Times that he was appalled by Brand's actions and had cooperated with the investigation. He added that he did not recall the 2009 incident but acknowledged he may have missed signs of distress at the time. Bayles said he left Brand's employment in 2010 due to a chaotic and manipulative working environment and has had no contact since. He expressed regret if he failed to intervene when Brand acted inappropriately.

Six women gave evidence against Brand during his trial. The court heard that Brand pursued sex with women he encountered, using his fame to achieve his aims. He was previously married to Katy Perry.