ITV has this afternoon (30th April 2021) pulled tonight’s final episode of the thriller ‘Viewpoint’ starring Noel Clarke after twenty women have accused him of sexual harassment, groping and bullying between 2004 and 2019.

ITV has said ‘it is no longer appopriate to broadcast the final episode of the drama ‘Viewpoint’ – instead it will be uploaded to ITV Hub until it is deleted on Sunday (2nd May).

ITV has been heavily criticised on social media for airing last night’s episode of Viewpoint, which included a sex scene involving Clarke, 45, who plays lead character DC Martin Young.

Yesterday evening, the Guardian published a damning investigation which reports the actor faces accusations of verbal abuse, bullying and sexual harassment. Bafta has now suspended the award-winning director’s membership and his outstanding British contribution to cinema award, which he was handed earlier this month at the Royal Albert Hall. A statement from Bafta read: “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.”

In response to the allegations, Noel Clarke said: ‘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.’

A source told the Daily Star, ‘Viewpoint was billed as ITV’s big crime drama but it’s now in turmoil.  The news broke an hour before episode 4 was due to air and ITV made an active decision not to mention Noel in the voice over announcement on Thursday. Bosses are now in talks about how to proceed promoting the rest of the show which continues on Friday.’