Thursday, embattled comedy legend Bill Cosby returned to the stage, where he received a standing ovation after his benefit performance for women’s service organization, The Links. The non-profit raises funds for African Americans in arts, youth projects, and health services.
During the Bahamian show, his first public appearance since multiple rape allegations were brought against him, Cosby placed his face in his hands, pretending to sob, as he joked about “being an evil man,” and that parents would not let their children near him. Fans applauded and laughed, as he continued his 90-minute comedy routine.
His wife, Camille, attended the show, but left after an hour.
A total of nine women have recently accused Cosby of drugging and sexually assaulting them. The latest victim to come forward is actress Louisa Moritz. Moritz, 68, says he once forced her into oral sex, backstage at “The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson” in 1971. She claims Cosby stuck his penis in her mouth, and implied he would further her career if she went through with it. Moritz says she plans on filing a civil suit.
On Friday, model-actress Angela Leslie came forward accusing Cosby of assaulted her in a Las Vegas hotel room in 1992. She says Cosby tried to tempt her with alcohol, telling her to act like she was drunk as part of an “audition.” He instructed her to wet her hair in the bathroom, and upon returning, found Cosby naked in the bed, forcing her into a sex act. She claims “he masturbated with my hand. I wasn’t pulling back. I was in shock.”
Cosby’s lawyers have called the accusations unfounded. But Cosby’s downward spiral continues, as he pulled out of scheduled interviews with Queen Latifah and David Letterman.