Chris Brown Freed on $6.7M Bail After London Nightclub Assault Charge

Grammy-winning singer Chris Brown is back in the spotlight, but not for his chart-topping hits. Released on a hefty $6.7 million bail after his arrest in London for an alleged 2023 nightclub assault, Brown is free to launch his world tour next month. The incident, which took place at the upscale Tape nightclub in London’s Mayfair district, left music producer Abe Diaw hospitalized, claiming an unprovoked attack.

British Judge Tony Baumgartner granted Brown’s release, overturning an earlier decision to hold him in custody until a June 13 hearing. Now, with a court date set for June 20, Brown must post bail to ensure he returns for trial. His friend, American musician Omololu Akinlolu, known as Hoody Baby, faces charges in the same case. Neither has entered a plea.

Brown, sporting sweatpants and a black tee, had his case shifted from Manchester to Southwark Crown Court. Despite his attorney’s assurances that he’s no flight risk, prosecutors called the alleged crime—causing grievous bodily harm with intent—extremely serious. As Brown prepares for tour stops in Amsterdam, Germany, and the U.K., the question lingers: will this legal drama overshadow his performances?