For many of you outside of the U.S., Noel Clarke may be best known for minor roles in franchises like Doctor Who and Star Trek. However, in the UK, he's become a big name both behind and in front of the camera, and is also closely tied to BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts), the group responsible for the country's version of the Academy Awards.
In fact, he was awarded the "Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema" trophy from BAFTA earlier this month, but the group has now suspended him - and taken that award back - after a string of sexual misconduct allegations from 20 women. The news first came to light in a damning piece from The Guardian.
The lengthy report is crammed full of shocking details, including claims that he persuaded actresses to audition naked and secretly recorded them. There are also several other claims of sexual harassment (both verbal and physical), and the whole thing makes for undeniably upsetting reading.
For what it's worth, Clarke has issued a statement in response: "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."
Needless to say, it would be a surprise for Clarke to bounce back from these allegations, especially when there's so many of them and a number of witnesses who have come forward to back them up.
Clarke is also known for movies and TV shows like SAS: Red Notice, Mute, Adulthood, and 4.3.2.1.