NBC rules out Cosby return

The door is firmly shut to Bill Cosby’s return to NBC, the network’s top entertainment executive has said.

In the wake of new and continuing allegations of sexual assault against the comic actor, NBC executive Bob Greenblatt said it was “safe to say” NBC would never air a project with him.

NBC had previously announced it was dropping its plans to develop a new sitcom with Cosby, whose The Cosby Show was a smash hit for the network 30 years ago.

The star’s planned return to NBC was announced last year, before the rising tide of accusations against him by women claiming he drugged and assaulted them.

Meanwhile, Cosby is planning to perform two shows in Colorado.

He released a statement thanking his “courageous” fans and saying he is ready to appear in Pueblo on Friday and in Denver on Saturday.

He finished his statement with references to his Fat Albert character’s trademark line and to his 2013 television special, Hey, Hey, Hey – I’m Far From Finished.

The 77-year-old comedian is facing sexual assault allegations from more than 15 women, with some claims dating back decades.

He has denied the allegations through his lawyer and has never been charged.

In the most recent allegation, a model claimed Cosby drugged and sexually abused her at the Playboy Mansion in 2008.