Detectives have arrested a 50-year-old man in Cheshire over the death of Stuart Lubbock, who died at the home of entertainer Michael Barrymore 20 years ago.
Essex Police said the man, who has not been named, was arrested "in connection with the indecent assault and murder of Stuart Lubbock".
Butcher Mr Lubbock, 31, had been attending a party at Barrymore's luxury home in Roydon with eight other people on March 31, 2001.
Former Strike It Lucky star Barrymore was criticised for leaving his home soon after Mr Lubbock was found floating in the outside pool.
The 68-year-old former television presenter has always denied involvement in the death.
A post-mortem examination showed Mr Lubbock had suffered severe internal injuries which suggested he had been sexually assaulted.
Alcohol, ecstasy and cocaine were found in his bloodstream.
In a statement, Essex Police said: "Detectives have today, Wednesday 17 March, arrested a 50-year-old man in connection with the indecent assault and murder of Stuart Lubbock."
Police said the man, who was arrested in Cheshire, remains in custody where he continues to be questioned.
Essex Police added: "Stuart was found unconscious in the swimming pool of a property in Roydon on March 31 2001. Despite attempts to save him he later died in hospital. The 31-year-old had been attending a party at the house with eight other people.
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"A post-mortem examination found Stuart had suffered horrific anal injuries which are believed to be the result of a serious sexual assault prior to his death."
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