Al Porter has spoken out for the first time since he announced his resignation from Today FM.
The 24-year-old has broken his silence after Today FM announced that Muireann O’Connell will permanently replace him on the lunchtime show he previously hosted.
The comedian left his role at the station after he was accused of groping a number of men, and now he’s claimed that his decision to quit was entirely his own decision.
Speaking to the Irish Daily Star, Al said, “The minute I saw the news I texted Today FM’s station manager Adele Nolan to tell Muireann I think she’ll be great and wish her all the best.”
“I wasn’t asked to resign from any of my jobs. I took that step away myself facing very serious claims made. There are no hard feelings.”
In a statement back in November, Al said, “I have been completely taken aback by reports in the media and on the social networks over the weekend, and by the scale and tone of the vitriol.”
“While my conduct, which had been in keeping with my flamboyant and outrageous public persona, may be regarded as offensive and unacceptable by many people, I at no time intended to upset anyone.
“Up until now, I had been unaware of these complaints or the impact of my conduct and I am truly sorry for any distress I may have caused in what I had regarded as light-hearted and good-natured circumstances.”
“Although, on legal advice, I cannot comment on specific allegations at the present time, I nonetheless sincerely apologise to anyone I may have genuinely offended.
“I am very grateful to Today FM, the Olympia Panto and TV3 for the space and time I’ve been granted to deal with the situation.
“I have however come to the personal decision that I need time away from the spotlight after decades in the entertainment industry.
“I have informed Today FM that I am resigning from the station with immediate effect. To my family, colleagues, friends and fans I thank you for your many, many messages of support.”
