British star Yung Filly, a rapper and internet personality, has been arrested in Australia on charges of rape and assault. The 29-year-old, born Andres Felipe Valencia Barrientos in Colombia and raised in the UK, appeared in Perth Magistrates Court facing multiple charges including assault and sexual penetration without consent. He also faces a charge of impeding another person’s breathing by applying pressure to the neck.
Mr Barrientos gained popularity through a series of viral YouTube videos, music releases, and appearances on TV networks like the BBC and ITV. His upbringing in a household influenced by Latino music, combined with his love for the London grime scene, shaped his musical style. He started his career on YouTube, where his comedic skits attracted a large following leading to over 1.4 million subscribers on YouTube and millions of views on social media platforms.
Transitioning into music, Mr Barrientos released singles like “Take Time” and collaborated with fellow rapper Chunkz. Despite initial scepticism from some in the industry, he has seen success with recent tracks like “Tempted” and “Grey”, featuring rapper Aitch. Alongside his music career, he has hosted various shows for the BBC and Channel 4, showcasing his versatility in the entertainment industry.
The alleged assault took place in a Perth hotel room after Mr Barrientos’s nightclub performance in September. Following his arrest in Brisbane and extradition to Perth, he remains in custody. He is being represented by a Perth barrister, with the prosecution presenting photos of the woman’s injuries to support their case against him. The Independent has reached out to Mr Barrientos’s UK representative for a statement on the matter.
Rape Crisis provides support for those affected by rape and sexual abuse, offering helplines and resources for victims. The case against Yung Filly continues to unfold, highlighting the serious nature of the charges brought against the prominent internet personality and musician.