Al Porter will no longer perform in this year’s Christmas Pantomime

Al Porter has decided to 'stand aside' from his role in this year's Olympia Christmas Pantomime.

This follows his decision to resign from his TodayFM radio show with immediate effect. The decision to resign and opt out of the Panto are in response to the allegations made against the 24-year-old of inappropriate behaviour towards other men. On Friday and over the weekend, several people claimed on social media that Mr Porter has in the past behaved inappropriately towards them. While it was assumed that he would no longer be a part of the Pantomime, it was only confirmed officially today by the production company, Spotlight Productions. They issued the following statement to The Sun:

"Due to recent developments, Al Porter is standing aside from his role in this year’s Pantomime Polly and the Beanstalk at the Olympia Theatre. A replacement star will be announced shortly."

In a statement issued by Al on social media, he explained that he needed to take time and space to deal with the situation. He said:

"I am grateful to Today FM, the Olympia Panto and TV3 for the space and time I've been granted to deal with the situation. I have however come to the personal decision that I need time away from the spotlight after decades in the entertainment industry. I have informed Today FM that I am resigning from the station with immediate effect."