TV presenter Jonathan Ross has stated he is "horrified" by allegations of sexual misconduct against David Walliams and the rape conviction of Russell Brand. Ross, who was once on friendly terms with both men, said he was unaware of their alleged conduct at the time.

This statement comes as reports emerged on Tuesday detailing accusations of sexual misconduct against David Walliams from several women. Walliams has denied these allegations. Russell Brand was sentenced to 10 years in prison for rape on Monday.

In his statement, Ross conveyed that he was "as horrified by the revelations about David Walliams and the crimes of Russell Brand as the rest of the nation." He added that his thoughts are with the "many, many women who have bravely come forward."

The implications of these allegations and convictions are significant for the individuals involved and the broader entertainment industry, raising further questions about power dynamics and accountability.

Some of the women accuse Walliams of grooming them when they were teenagers or allege other inappropriate behaviour. In a letter published by The Guardian, Walliams stated he is not a sexual predator and has not broken the law. Among the specific accusations, one woman alleges she met Walliams at a fan event when she was 15, claiming he groomed her and they had sex when she was 17. Another woman alleges Walliams attempted a sexual assault when she was 15 and visited his home. Other accusations include grooming and attempted kissing by Walliams towards young women working as models, a claimed sexual relationship with a junior employee at HarperCollins, and inappropriate behaviour at ITV's Britain's Got Talent, such as inviting young women to his dressing room.

Ross also addressed a controversial joke he made in 2004 at a comedy awards show, where the punchline suggested Walliams would be going home with a 15-year-old. Ross described the quip as "tasteless" and explained that he believed it was an exaggerated reference to Walliams dating younger women. He stated that had he suspected it related to actual events, he would not have used the joke and would have ended his personal and professional relationship with Walliams.

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy has commented that the allegations against Walliams represent "the latest in a long line of reported abuses of power in the media." The article references previous reporting on Walliams' career, controversies, and a failed legal bid to remain anonymous.

Jonathan Ross is a well-known television presenter, having hosted numerous celebrities on "The Jonathan Ross Show," including both David Walliams and Russell Brand. The events add to a growing discourse surrounding misconduct allegations within the entertainment and media sectors.