TORONTO — Bill Cosby is set to perform in Kitchener, Ont., tonight — the first of three Ontario shows this week amid mounting allegations of sexual assault against the comedian.
The embattled TV star has promised fans the "show of their life" if they attend but a number of people have announced plans to boycott the performances.
At least 15 women have accused the 77-year-old comedian of sexually assaulting them, allegations he has denied through his lawyer.
Cosby is also scheduled to perform in London tomorrow and Hamilton on Friday.
In each city, advocates for sexual assault victims have organized events to raise awareness of the issue at the same time as Cosby's shows.
He has had to cancel or postpone at least 10 shows on his current world tour because of the growing number of women who claim he drugged and sexually assaulted them.
Cosby's public relations firm issued a statement Tuesday affirming that the Canadian dates would go ahead as scheduled and asking attendees to ignore any protesters.
"Dear Patrons: we have been advised that there may be attempts to disrupt tonight's performance," said the statement issued by Purpose PR Firm on behalf of Cosby. "If a disruption occurs, please remain calm until the matter is resolved and do not confront the person making the disruption."
Earlier Tuesday, Premier Kathleen Wynne said she would not attend any of Cosby's shows in Ontario because of the "very serious" allegations the comedian is facing.
"Until those are sorted out I certainly would not go to a performance," Wynne said.
Cosby, who starred as Dr. Cliff Huxtable on "The Cosby Show" from 1984 to 1992, has never been criminally charged in connection with any of the allegations.
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