Bafta has suspended award-winning TV and film star Noel Clarke while it investigates allegations of sexual harassment and bullying.
A Guardian investigation reports accusations of verbal abuse and groping against the 45-year-old actor-producer, who rose to fame in BBC series Doctor Who and London drama film Kidulthood.
The newspaper said it had spoken to 20 women, all of whom knew Clarke in a professional capacity. Two are quoted describing him as a "sexual predator".
Women alleged he had engaged in sexual harassment, unwanted touching, groping, sexually inappropriate behaviour, bullying and unprofessional misconduct between 2004 and 2019.
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Clarke said in a statement to 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.
"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.”
Earlier this month, Clarke received a Bafta for Outstanding Contribution to Cinema. He accepted the award with a speech dedicated to “the underrepresented, anyone who sits at home believing that they can achieve more".
In a statement, Bafta said: “In light of the allegations of serious misconduct regarding Noel Clarke in The Guardian, Bafta has taken the decision to suspend his membership and the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema award immediately and until further notice.”
Clarke received the Bafta Rising Star award in 2009. He has been appearing on screens this week in ITV's drama series Viewpoint.
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