ITV cancels Viewpoint finale amid Noel Clarke sexual harassment allegations

ITV has announced that the Viewpoint finale will not air tonight, in light of the allegations made against the show's lead actor Noel Clarke. 

The British television network confirmed that the last episode of the six-part police drama, which was scheduled to hit screens at 9pm, has been pulled from their Friday evening listings. 

In a statement, ITV explained that it would be "inappropriate" to air the Viewpoint finale after yesterday's investigative report in the Guardian, which revealed allegations of sexual harassment and bullying made by 20 women against Clarke. 

The news comes just hours after Good Morning Britain fans slammed ITV for playing Viewpoint trailers during its commercial breaks. The channel has now responded to the public's demands to cancel the final episode. 

"ITV has a zero-tolerance policy to bullying, harassment, and victimization and robust procedures in place to investigate and deal with any complaints. We strongly believe that everyone deserves to work in a supportive and safe environment," its statement read. 

"In light of the very serious nature of the allegations against Noel Clarke raised by 20 women in the Guardian’s report, ITV has decided it is no longer appropriate to broadcast the final episode of the drama Viewpoint on ITV main channel this evening."

Clarke, who stars as one of the key characters in the cast of Viewpoint, playing Detective Martin King on the popular mini-series, has been accused of groping, unwanted touching, and sexually inappropriate behavior by 20 women known to him 'in a professional capacity'. 

The English actor has also been accused of 'taking and sharing sexually explicit pictures and videos without consent', as well as professional misconduct. The reported incidents, which allegedly occurred between 2004 and 2019, have been 'vehemently' denied by Clarke. 

"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," he said in a statement. "If anyone who has worked with me has ever felt uncomfortable or disrespected, I sincerely apologize. I vehemently deny any sexual misconduct or wrongdoing and intend to defend myself against these false allegations." 

BAFTA, who recognized Clarke for his outstanding British Contribution to Cinema prize on April 10, has suspended his award in response to the allegations. 

ITV has confirmed that the final episode of Viewpoint will be available on its catch-up service "for a limited time" to ensure fans are given a conclusion to the show.