BBC Pulls Ed Westwick Drama ‘Ordeal by Innocence’ Amid Rape Accusations

Plus: Production company behind “White Gold” says actor has “paused from filming”

Ed Westwick
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The BBC has pulled the upcoming Ed Westwick drama “Ordeal by Innocence” from its schedule, the broadcaster announced Friday.

Additionally, the independent production company behind his “White Gold” series for the network said the actor has “paused from filming” in the wake of multiple accusations of sexual misconduct by the former “Gossip Girl” star.

Here is the BBC’s full statement, from a spokesperson:

“These are serious allegations which Ed Westwick has strenuously denied. The BBC is not making any judgement but until these matters are resolved we will not include ‘Ordeal by Innocence’ in the schedules. The independent production company making ‘White Gold’ has informed us that Ed Westwick has paused from filming while he deals with these allegations.”

“Gossip Girl” alum Westwick, who has been accused of sexual misconduct by at least two women, took to Twitter on Thursday to weigh in on the accusations, denying them and saying that he’s “cooperating with authorities” to set the record straight.

“It is disheartening and sad to me that as a result of two unverified and provably untrue social media claims, there are some in this environment who could ever conclude I have anything to do with such vile and horrific conduct,” the actor wrote via Twitter. “I have absolutely not, and I am cooperating with the authorities so that they can clear my name as soon as possible.”

Westwick was first accused on Monday by actress Kristina Cohen, who said in a lengthy Facebook post that Westwick forced himself on her three years ago, sexually assaulting her while she was napping at his house.

Two days later, he was accused by a second woman, Aurelie Wynn. Those allegations were also posted to Facebook.

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