Justin Lee Collins, the British comedian and former host of The Friday Night Project, is to stand trial for allegedly harassing his former girlfriend. Collins, 37, vigorously denies putting his ex-partner Anna Larke in "fear of violence" between January and July 2012, reports the Independent.
Collins of south west London, wore a navy blue jacket as he appeared at St Albans Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing. He spoke only to confirm his name and plead not guilty to a charge of harassment, causing fear of violence. The case was adjourned and will begin again on September 24, 2012. Collins was granted bail on condition that he does not contact Ms Larke or her relatives. The comedian, who appeared in West End show Rock of Ages, could potentially face up to six months behind bars if found guilty. Shortly after the accusation was first made in 2011, a spokeswoman for the Bristol comedian said, "He is shocked and upset by the allegations.He is unable to comment on the circumstances and the events to which the charge relates because of the proceedings, but he is confident that he will prove his innocence".
Collins' other television exploits include attempting to reunite the original cast of the A-Team and trying to represent Britain and Ireland in the annual Eurovision Song Contest, with a song written by RONAN KEATING.