Comedian gets standing ovation in Canada amidst rape allegations

Embattled comedian Bill Cosby received a standing ovation at the end of his first live performance of the New Year, in Canada.

The veteran American comedian has been on the end of a sexual assault allegations of the 70s and 80s from over 15 women.

Despite the scandal that has besieged him, the comedian was well received in Canada as he told the audience that he had a wonderful time, thanking his fans for giving him the opportunity to bring laughter back into your lives.

Outside the show in Kitchener, Ontario more than a dozen protesters however gathered holding placards bearing “rape is no joke” while some other protesters attempted to block the entrance of the venue.

A slew of the show’s ticket-holders reportedly boycotted the show, but according to Huntington Post, the 2,000-seat venue was about two-thirds full. Some fans spoke to , insisting that the comedian is innocent until proven guilty.

“Why are 20 women coming out now when it's 20, 30 years ago?" a fan asked, while another said; "Innocent until proven guilty. I'm hoping it's not true and until I know, otherwise I love him to death.”

The comedian in a statement after the Onatario show thanked his “dear fans” for giving him the opportunity to bring laughter back into your lives that night and also applaud them for respecting themselves, the theatre and the event organisers that produced the show.