Television presenter Jonathan Ross has expressed shock following recent revelations involving high-profile media figures, stating he was completely unaware of misconduct during times when he was on friendly terms with them.
In a public statement issued following recent news reports, Ross stated he was "horrified" by allegations of sexual misconduct directed at David Walliams, alongside the recent rape conviction of Russell Brand. Ross acknowledged that while he was once familiar with both men, he remained genuinely unaware of their actions at the time.
The statements follow reports published by ITV News and the Guardian detailing sexual misconduct allegations brought against Walliams by multiple women—claims that Walliams firmly denies. Meanwhile, Russell Brand was recently sentenced to prison following his conviction for rape, prompting broader industry responses, including comments from Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy regarding abuses of power within the media.
Reflecting on Brand's conviction, Ross emphasized the heavy toll placed on women who step forward to report abuse and praised the persistence of investigative journalists. He noted that workplaces must ensure safety for employees, protect whistleblowers, and prevent individuals from hiding behind positions of power.
