Bill Cosby has been facing allegations of sexual assault dating back decades from well over a dozen women who worked closely with the entertainer. In the ongoing dismantling of Cosby’s wholesome image, another woman has come forward with allegations that he made unwanted advances.
As reported by the Associated Press, former actress and model Helen Gumpel (formerly Shelby) has stepped forward saying that Cosby made unwanted sexual advances towards her during her one-time appearance on NBC’s The Cosby Show in 1988. Gumpel, who made the allegations public in the wake of Cosby canceling a pair of performances in Boston at a news conference, shared that the exchange took a toll on her professional life.
More from the AP:
She said she was called to the show’s set for what she thought was another audition shortly after filming the one episode in 1987. She said she was brought to Cosby’s dressing room and Cosby had her sit on a couch and handed her a drink. She said Cosby then stood in front of her with his crotch in her face.
“I never thought of myself as a victim because I refused his advances,” Gumpel said. “But my career was a victim.”
Cosby’s lawyer Marty Singer did not immediately respond to an email message seeking comment. The 77-year-old entertainer faces sexual assault accusations from at least 15 women. He denies the allegations and has never been charged with a crime.
Cosby issued a statement saying that the performances were canceled as a result of impending weather. Forecasts say the region might see up to two feet of snow by the end of Tuesday.
—
Photo: WENN
