Jonathan Ross Expresses ‘Shock’ Over David Walliams and Russell Brand Allegations

POLICY WIRE — London, UK — Jonathan Ross has stated he is “horrified” by the recent accusations involving David Walliams and the criminal convictions of Russell Brand, both of whom he describes as former former friends.

The 55-year-old Walliams is facing allegations from multiple women regarding sexually inappropriate conduct. This includes two individuals who allege they were groomed by the comedian while they were only 15 years old.

These claims against Walliams emerged one day after 51-year-old Russell Brand was sentenced to 10-and-a-half years in prison for the rape of one woman and the sexual assault of three others.

Walliams has firmly denied all allegations, asserting that he is not a sexual predator. He expressed feeling “devastated” by the the reports published by The Guardian and ITV News, noting that his legal team had previously sought a High Court injunction to block the publication of these claims.

During a broadcast by ITV, a photo was shown featuring Ross and Walliams at an event attended by one of the women who accused the comedian of “highly inappropriate” behavior. Walliams’s lawyers maintain that he denies engaging in such conduct.

In a statement released Tuesday night, Ross—who has shared the screen with Walliams on television—said he is as shocked by the revelations regarding Walliams and Brand’s crimes as the rest of the country. He noted that while there was a period when he was friendly with both men, he was completely unaware of their actions at that time.

Ross concluded by stating that his thoughts are with the many women who have shown the courage to come forward.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed they reached out to both The Guardian and ITV News to ensure any potential victims knew how to report criminal allegations to the authorities.

Addressing the situation, media minister Ian Murray identified a “cultural problem” within the entertainment sector that he believes must be eradicated. He called for a zero-tolerance policy and better support for women and whistleblowers, while highlighting non-disclosure agreements as a significant factor in the issue.

Murray observed that it is frightening to report against a major star like Brand and that people must feel confident that existing systems will ensure they are heard and acted upon. He noted that those in power often fear reporting will be career-damaging or career-ending.

Bridget Phillipson, the equalities minister, praised the bravery of the victims. Speaking in the House of Commons, she stated that women and girls should not have to limit their ambitions due to outdated misogynistic attitudes, noting that recent testimonies highlight how much work remains to be done.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)em>