Chris Brown pleads 'not guilty' in London assault case

American singer Chris Brown appeared in a London court on Friday and pleaded not guilty to charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent.
The 36-year-old R&B star faces allegations related to a nightclub brawl in London in 2023.
Dressed in a dark suit and tie with glasses, Brown stood calmly in the dock at Southwark Crown Court. When asked to enter his plea, he responded clearly, 'Not guilty, ma'am.'
The case has drawn international attention, including from fans and media in South Africa, where Brown has a significant following.
Chris Brown was arrested last month in Manchester, in the north-west of England, according to IOL.
He was released on bail set at £5 million, which is approximately R130 million. The high bail amount reflects the seriousness of the charges.
A spokesperson for Brown said, 'Chris is confident the truth will come out during the trial. He denies all allegations and looks forward to clearing his name.'
The incident reportedly took place during a nightclub altercation in London last year.
The prosecution alleges that Brown intended to cause serious harm. However, Brown's legal team insists the charges are unfounded.
South African fans have expressed mixed reactions on social media. Some show support, hoping for a fair trial, while others stress the importance of justice and accountability.
Chris Brown enjoys immense popularity in South Africa, where he has built a devoted fan base over nearly two decades.
His music, rooted in R&B, resonates deeply with South African audiences, particularly among black middle-class listeners who have long embraced American R&B on radio stations.
In December 2024, Brown made history by selling out two consecutive nights at Johannesburg's FNB Stadium.
Each night drew nearly 95,000 fans—a remarkable feat that few international artists achieve on the continent.
This case highlights how international celebrities can face legal challenges far from home.
The court will continue the trial in the coming months. Chris Brown remains out on bail as the court prepares for further hearings.
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