Cosby stays silent over string of rape claims

“Let me say this. I only expect the black media to uphold the standards of excellence in journalism and when you do that you have to go in with a neutral mind,” Cosby told the publication’s Stacy Brown.

Cosby, 77, has stayed silent in light of the more than two dozen women who have come forward to accuse him of having drugged and sexually assaulted them. The alleged incidents go as far back as the 1960s.

In the interview, Cosby also addressed how his wife, Camille Cosby, has weathered the allegations and ongoing public scrutiny.

“Love and the strength of womanhood,” he said. “Let me say it again, love and the strength of womanhood.

“And, you could reverse it, the strength of womanhood and love.”

But Cosby declined to address the rape and sexual assault allegations. According to the report, he has been advised not to discuss the ongoing cases with the 
media.

Brown wrote that the comedian, speaking from his Massachusetts home, sounded “upbeat” on the phone.

The interview ended abruptly, though, when Cosby told the reporter that “they” do not want him talking to the media.

Meanwhile, an Atlanta college is suspending its endowed professorship with Cosby amid the allegations. Spelman College is the latest to disassociate itself from him.

It said the programme was established in the name of Cosby and his wife Camille to bring positive attention and scholars to the campus. It said the goal was “to enhance our intellectual, cultural and creative life”.

In the statement, the college said the current situation “prevents us from continuing to meet these objectives fully” and the programme will be suspended until the goals can again be 
met.