Importance Score: 55 / 100 🔵
Comedian Jim Davidson, who was exonerated of sex offences in 2013, has recounted the “terrifying” period spent on police bail, during which he feared his career was over. In a recent interview, Davidson revealed what he described as shocking remarks allegedly made by Operation Yewtree officers moments before he was placed in a holding cell.
Claims of Shocking Police Comments During Operation Yewtree Investigation
Davidson stated, “The saving grace was, as they put me in the cell, this policeman said to me – I swear to God – ‘Don’t worry, Jim. Your case is not about underage sex, all yours is old slappers.’ The policeman said that!” The entertainer emphasized that he was never formally charged in connection with the allegations, which dated back as far as 35 years prior to the launch of the investigation.
Davidson’s Perspective on Russell Brand Allegations
Turning his attention to fellow comedian Russell Brand, who has recently been accused by the Metropolitan Police, Davidson offered a cautious response. “Whatever I think, I’ll keep to myself,” Davidson reflected, “but you’ve got to ask yourself, [if] he’s a good-looking guy and the women are all over him, why would he need to sexually assault someone?”
Presumption of Innocence
Davidson further commented on the situation involving Brand, asserting, “What he needs to be able to do is defend himself, and the public should realise it’s only an accusation.” He stressed the importance of due process and the principle that accusations are not convictions.
‘Do the Crime, Do the Time’
However, Davidson made it clear that his sympathy would be absent should evidence confirm Brand’s guilt. “If he’s found guilty, so be it. You do the crime, you do the time,” he declared, indicating a firm stance on accountability if wrongdoing is proven.
Woke Culture as a ‘Double-Edged Weapon’
These reflections from Jim Davidson emerged during a new interview with The Telegraph, where he argued that the “woke” culture, which he believes previously contributed to his professional setbacks (‘cancellation’), has paradoxically become beneficial to him in some respects.
Navigating Offence in the Modern Era
Davidson acknowledged that his often controversial jokes are not universally appreciated, and the rise of woke sensibilities has led some viewers, who take offence, to actively seek to boycott his performances and appearances.
Peak Career Earnings and Shifting Perceptions
At the height of his popularity, Jim Davidson commanded substantial earnings, reportedly £1 million annually for hosting “The Generation Game” and £500,000 per year for presenting his snooker-based quiz show, “Big Break.”
Career Setbacks and Theatre Bans
Despite this past success, Davidson was dismissed from both prominent roles in 2002. Subsequently, as societal attitudes evolved and perceptions of what constitutes offensive material shifted, numerous theatre venues began to prohibit his comedy shows.
Woke Movement: Blessing and Curse
In conclusion, Davidson views the woke movement as a complex phenomenon with contrasting impacts on his career, describing it as a “double-edged weapon” that has presented both challenges and unexpected advantages.