ITV has cancelled tonight’s final episode of Viewpoint following misconduct allegations about actor Noel Clarke.
An article published in The Guardian detailed allegations from 20 women, with the TV and film star vehemently denying the claims.
This afternoon ITV said it will not air the final episode of its drama Viewpoint starring Clark, originally scheduled for 9PM tonight (30 April).
However the final episode will be made available to watch online via the ITV Hub until Sunday night.
An ITV spokesperson said: “ITV has a zero tolerance policy to bullying, harassment and victimisation and robust procedures in place to investigate and deal with any complaints. We strongly believe that everyone deserves to work in a supportive and safe environment.
“In light of the very serious nature of the allegations against Noel Clarke raised by 20 women in the Guardian’s report, ITV has decided it is no longer appropriate to broadcast the final episode of the drama Viewpoint on ITV main channel this evening.
“We are mindful that some of our viewers have already invested four hours of their time over the past four nights in following this thriller which was due to conclude this evening, and they have yet to see the final episode.
“As such we plan to make it available on ITV Hub tonight for a limited time for any viewers who wish to seek it out, and watch its conclusion.”
An ITV source added: “Viewpoint is an ensemble production, made by the hard work of a 200 strong cast and crew. Neither producers Tiger Aspect or ITV have received any complaints about Noel Clarke’s behaviour during the making of this drama.”
The full series of Viewpoint, including the final episode, will be available on The Hub until Sunday night.
Earlier today Sky halted paused productions involving Clarke including the planned fourth season of police drama Bulletproof.
In a statement to Deadline, Sky said: “Sky stands against all forms of sexual harassment and bullying and takes any allegations of this nature extremely seriously. Effective immediately, we have halted Noel Clarke’s involvement in any future Sky productions.”
Vertigo Films, who produce Bulletproof, said in their own statement: “We are devastated to hear about these allegations and have launched an urgent investigation to find out if any apply to any Vertigo Films productions. Our immediate concern is for any cast or crew who may have had a negative experience on set.
“We have robust procedures in place for reporting incidents, including the ability to raise issues anonymously. And while no issues have been flagged to us, we stand ready to support anyone who has had a negative experience on the show and encourage you to come forward with confidence. Effective immediately, Noel Clarke is removed from any Vertigo Films production.”
In a statement in response to the allegations, 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.
“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.”
Meanwhile BAFTA, who recently honoured Clarke at the 2021 Film awards, 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.”
