In a candid interview, legendary comedian Jimmy Tarbuck has opened up about the harrowing experience he endured during his arrest as part of Operation Yewtree, a significant police inquiry into historical sexual abuse in the entertainment sector. Tarbuck, who became a household name from the 1960s through the early 1990s, was arrested in 2013 following allegations made by six individuals but was ultimately released without charge nearly a year later.
A Dark Chapter in Entertainment History
Operation Yewtree was launched in the wake of the shocking revelations surrounding Jimmy Savile, a prominent television presenter who was posthumously exposed as a sexual predator. The investigation led to numerous high-profile figures from the world of entertainment being scrutinised, including Tarbuck, whose arrest marked a deeply unsettling period in his life.
Reflecting on the experience, Tarbuck expressed disbelief at the allegations against him, particularly as they pertained to children. “Kids? I said, ‘Are you kidding me?’” he recounted to The Daily Telegraph. He shared an anecdote from fellow comedian Ken Dodd, who remarked, “If I’d seen him going away with ten chorus girls, I’d believe it. But not schoolgirls.” This encapsulates the shock and scepticism that surrounded his arrest.
The Investigation’s Impact
The allegations against Tarbuck dated back to the late 1970s, but he successfully demonstrated his innocence by confirming he was performing in London on the night in question. However, the emotional toll on him and his family was substantial. “That was very worrying, and terrible for the family, especially the younger ones,” he admitted. Tarbuck also expressed concern about the role of the police and the media in fuelling the frenzy surrounding the investigation, suggesting that individuals were being exploited for sensationalist reporting.
The comedian’s reflections aren’t isolated; several other celebrities found themselves wrongfully ensnared in the Yewtree inquiry. Notable figures such as Jim Davidson, DJ Mike Osman, and Paul Gambaccini also faced allegations that led nowhere. Additionally, singer Cliff Richard was the subject of a highly publicised police raid on his Berkshire home, although he was never arrested or charged. The fallout from these events led Richard to describe the ordeal as “the worst thing that has happened to me in my entire life.”
Tarbuck’s Thoughts on Savile
On the subject of Savile, Tarbuck remarked, “The fella from Leeds, what was his name… Jimmy Savile. I never liked him. Just a strange guy, and there was Thatcher and all the others shaking hands with him. And he got a knighthood!” This observation encapsulates the bewilderment many felt at how Savile was able to operate in plain sight for so long, gaining accolades while hiding his predatory behaviour.
Tarbuck’s comments reflect a broader conversation about accountability in the entertainment industry and the urgent need for reform, particularly in how allegations of abuse are handled.
Why it Matters
The impact of Operation Yewtree continues to resonate within society, highlighting the delicate balance between seeking justice for victims and protecting the innocent from wrongful accusations. Tarbuck’s experience serves as a potent reminder of the personal toll that such investigations can take, not only on those accused but also on their families and communities. As conversations surrounding accountability and media responsibility evolve, understanding these narratives becomes crucial for fostering a more just and empathetic society.