Some Longtime Fans Shocked By Criminal Allegations Against Bill Cosby
PLAINFIELD, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Bill Cosby was one of America's top TV dads for many years, and some viewers of his popular shows were still expressing shock to hear the allegations against him Wednesday.
Cosby, 78, was charged with sexual assault in Pennsylvania Wednesday, more than a decade after former Temple University employee Andre Constand told police the comedian drugged and violated her at his home near Philadelphia.
As CBS2's Christine Sloan reported, Cosby was known to multiple generations for imploring young people to choose the right and moral path in life. Upon hearing about the charges, fans in New York and New Jersey were disappointed.
"I never imagined that my favorite comic would be involved in such things as this," said Linda Brienza of North Plainfield, New Jersey. "It's terrible."
"I don't know what to think," said Penny Papworth of England. "I'm a bit shocked, to be honest."
Many believed Cosby was guilty and has escaped justice too long.
"The rich and famous, and lots of money and so forth, and it doesn't make them good people," said Robin Merrill of Napa Valley, California, "and I think it's time. It's time that somebody paid some sort of dues for doing stuff like this."
"Power corrupts and a lot of cases, and makes them massive egos," said Fiona Smith of Ireland. "They think they get away with anything."
But there were also those who said Cosby deserves his day in court.
"I think that it's a possibility that it could all be something that's a farce – you know, just to destroy his character – because Bill Cosby was so integral, especially as far as black families are concerned," said Jackie Graham of Manhattan. "I think that, you know, if they would have come forward maybe a little sooner, it might be – it would have been more believable."
Cosby has denied all of the allegations.
In the meantime, an attorney representing other women in civil lawsuits against Cosby said her clients will testify in the Pennsylvania case if they are asked and if the judge allows it.
