Russell Brand was described as a "sexual predator" by the prosecution as his trial for rape and sexual assault began Wednesday at Southwark Crown Court in London. The 51-year-old actor and comedian faces three counts of rape, three charges of sexual assault, and one of indecent assault, with allegations spanning a decade between 1999 and 2009 from six different women.

Brand has denied all charges. The prosecution, led by Riel Karmy-Jones KC, told the jury that the complainants did not know each other and came forward independently. The nature of the alleged offending was described as varied, reflecting the breadth of the defendant's career, and that Brand was allegedly undeterred in his pursuit of sexual contact, which the prosecution characterized as "indiscriminate and voracious."

Jurors heard that the prosecution contends Brand could be charming and likeable when seeking something, but also demanding and entitled. He is said to have displayed a "childlike expectation that his every desire should be met." Following alleged encounters, Brand would reportedly appear indifferent, continue as if nothing had happened, or make excuses to leave.

The implications of the trial are significant for the public profile of the well-known comedian and actor. The proceedings are expected to reveal further details of the alleged offenses and Brand's alleged behavior over the ten-year period.

The first complainant reportedly met Brand in 1999 before he was famous and alleges he raped her after she attended a Labour Party conference event. When questioned by police about this, Brand allegedly stated he did not remember the incident or the complainant's name, and denied engaging in non-consensual activity.

The second complainant, who worked for MTV, alleges Brand indecently assaulted her. She recounted Brand asking for directions to the toilets, then asking her to accompany him into the restroom before allegedly grabbing her forearm and displaying a "desperate, wild-eyed look" while urging her to "please please come in – oh go on."

The third complainant alleges Brand orally raped her in a toilet after they met at a party in 2004. Within a minute of meeting, the jury was told, Brand allegedly grabbed and squeezed her breasts. The prosecution stated that the woman resisted.

Brand's wife, Laura, was present in court on Wednesday. The trial is expected to continue with further testimony and evidence presented to the jury.