Noel Clarke’s Bulletproof co-star Ashley Walters has broken his silence after the British actor was suspended from BAFTA after 20 women made claims of sexual misconduct to The Guardian.
Noel strongly denies the claims made against him.
In a statement, Walters said: “My thoughts are with the women who have come forward and told their awful stories. I’m in shock and deeply saddened by what I have heard on a multitude of levels.
“I could never condone behaviour of this nature neither in nor out of the workplace, and whilst Noel has been a friend and colleague for several years, I cannot stand by and ignore these allegations.
“Sexual harassment, abuse and bullying have no place in our industry.”
Following the claims made to The Guardian, Sky have announced they have halted production on the latest series of Bulletproof..
Clarke stars as a lead role in the hit series alongside Walters.
In a statement, Clarke told The Guardian: “In a 20-year career, I have put inclusivity and diversity at the forefront of my work and never had a complaint made against me.
(Image: AFP/Getty Images)
“If anyone who has worked with me has ever felt uncomfortable or disrespected, I sincerely apologise.
“I vehemently deny any sexual misconduct or wrongdoing and intend to defend myself against these false allegations.”
In a statement, BAFTA said: “In light of the allegations of serious misconduct regarding Noel Clarke in The Guardian this evening, BAFTA has taken the decision to suspend his membership and the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema award immediately and until further notice. “
They added: “We take this matter extremely seriously.
“We encouraged the people who contacted us to report the matter to the appropriate authorities and also engaged an independent victim support expert to provide them with professional advice, and that support remains in place.
“We will continue to review this matter, and should any allegations be substantiated we will take appropriate action.”
(Image: Sky)
Meanwhile, Noel’s agency 42 M&P have confirmed to Daily Star they have parted ways with the Doctor Who actor earlier this month.
A spokesperson said: “Noel Clarke was a client of 42M&P until April this year but the company no longer represents him.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
