Chris Brown Appears in London Court Ahead of October Trial Over Alleged Nightclub Assault
Written by b87fm on 01/28/2026
R&B singer Chris Brown made a brief court appearance Wednesday (Jan. 28) at Southwark Crown Court as he prepares for a criminal trial later this year tied to an alleged nightclub assault in London.
The 36-year-old artist is facing one count of attempting to inflict grievous bodily harm, along with an alternative charge of assault causing actual bodily harm. Prosecutors allege Brown carried out an unprovoked attack on a music producer inside a London nightclub in 2023, striking the alleged victim with a bottle. Brown has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
During the short hearing, Brown spoke only to confirm his name and offered no additional remarks. His co-defendant, Omololu Akinlolu, 39, also appeared in court and has likewise denied the allegations. The two briefly shook hands as they entered the dock and stood together throughout the proceeding.
A small number of supporters were present in the public gallery. Court officials confirmed the case remains scheduled for trial in October, with the judge granting continued bail for both defendants. A further preliminary hearing was set for April to address outstanding procedural matters.
Brown was initially granted bail in May after posting £5 million, roughly $6.9 million, a condition that allowed him to continue his Breezy Bowl XX international tour, which concluded in October. Prosecutors did not oppose the bail application at the time, provided the financial terms were met.
The singer was arrested last year at a Manchester hotel shortly after returning to the United Kingdom for the first time since the alleged incident. Authorities have not publicly identified the complainant, citing the ongoing legal process.
A two-time Grammy Award winner known for hits such as “Run It,” “Loyal,” and “Under the Influence,” Brown remains one of the most commercially successful artists of his generation. However, the London case represents one of the most serious legal challenges he has faced in recent years.
The upcoming trial is expected to feature witness testimony and forensic evidence. Legal analysts note that a conviction could carry significant consequences, including possible jail time and restrictions on international travel. For now, Brown remains free on bail as the case moves forward.
