Ex-EastEnders star James Alexandrou has claimed that Noel Clarke had "too many of us scared" as he responded to the allegation made against the Viewpoint actor.
The 36-year-old, who played Martin Folwer in the BBC One soap from 1996 until 2007, says he's "ashamed" he didn't speak up sooner.
He penned an emotional message to his fans after Clarke was stripped of his Bafta and it was alleged he sexuall harassed and bullied women.
James wrote: "Noel Clarke had too many of scared us for too long. I genuinely feel ashamed I didn’t do more to stand up for friends of mine he hurt.
Innocent until proven guilty, but this was long overdue."
Clarke has issued a public apology amid claims by 20 women for his past actions, adding he is now "seeking professional help to educate himself and change for the better".
The actor and producer has said recent allegations of misconduct have "made it clear to me that some of my actions have affected people in ways I did not intend or realise," adding: "to those individuals, I am deeply sorry.
"I will be seeking professional help to educate myself and change for the better."
His comment comes as Sky, ITV and BAFTA distanced themselves from him after 20 women made allegations of sexual misconduct to The Guardian about him.
Clarke strongly denies the allegations against him or any criminal wrongdoing.
In a statement, 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.”
On Thursday evening BAFTA released a statement announcing they had suspended Clarke.
They also suspended the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema award he was awarded at this year's ceremony.
In a statement, BAFTA said: "In light of the allegations of serious misconduct regarding Noel Clarke in The Guardian this evening, BAFTA has taken the decision to suspend his membership and the Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema award immediately and until further notice. "
They added: "We take this matter extremely seriously.
"We encouraged the people who contacted us to report the matter to the appropriate authorities and also engaged an independent victim support expert to provide them with professional advice, and that support remains in place.
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"We will continue to review this matter, and should any allegations be substantiated we will take appropriate action."
Noel's statement was issued just hours after ITV confirmed it would no longer air the final part of his new crime drama Viewpoint this evening.
The show will be available on ITV Hub only until Sunday before it is removed.
- Eastenders
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