'Roastmaster General' comic strenuously denies allegations

American comedian Jeff Ross has strongly denied allegations that he had a relationship with an underage girl more than 20 years ago.

Detailed claims were made on a Facebook account last year, saying that the relationship started when the girl, who was working in a New York comedy club, was 15 and Ross was 33.

And they came to light again this weekend as female comedians and others in the industry shared their stories of abuse and misconduct on the circuit in the US, UK and Ireland.

Ross - known as The Roastmaster General for his no-holds-barred insults on Comedy Central roasts - said in a statement on Twitter: 'I have never engaged in any sexual relationship with a minor.'

He said the claims have been 'investigated numerous times and thoroughly reviewed and never published', adding: 'The witnesses and evidence do not support these despicable allegations.'

He has also vowed to take legal action against his accuser over the 'untrue, horrific allegations.'

But he ended his statement by saying: 'The dangerous environment currently being exposed at the comedy clubs is real. Although this accusation is false, I want there to be no doubt of my commitment to victims of sexual assault.'

The allegation resurfaced after Chris D’Elia denied pursuing teen fans on social media.

In the UK, comedian George Rigden issued a statement on social media yesterday admitting: 'For most of the last decade, I have treated women appallingly. I was an abusive, manipulative boyfriend and a lecherous, harassing creep to many women I met, inside and outside of comedy. I am a big part of an endemic toxicity in the arts.'

He said he was a 'monster' to his ex, also a comedian, and confessed to 'inappropriately messaging women, making many feel uncomfortable around me'.

Rigden also said he had spent two years trying to become a more respctful person with the help of therapists and friends, while saying: ' know that can’t take away the hurt I’ve caused other people, and no amount of apologising could ever remedy what I’ve inflicted.'

Published: 23 Jun 2020