Despite dealing with backlash and hecklers during his recent stand-up show in Canada, Bill Cosby continues to press forward with his latest North American comedy tour, issuing a statement today in which he insisted he is "far from finished."
His remarks come just two days after his Feb. 6 performance in Worcester, Mass., was canceled with the president and CEO of the theater admitting he was "relieved."
"Dear Fans: I have thousands of loyal, patient and courageous fans that are going to leave their homes to enjoy an evening of laughter and return home feeling wonderful. I'm ready!" Cosby said. "I thank you, the theatre staff, the event organizers and the Colorado Community for your continued support and coming to experience family, fun entertainment."
He added: "Hey, Hey, Hey -- I'm Far From Finished," citing the name of his 2013 TV standup special, his first in 30 years.
To date, the 77-year-old comedian has been accused of sexual assault by some 20 women. Cosby and his legal team have consistently denied all allegations of sexual abuse, some of which are decades old, and the Cosby Show patriarch has never been criminally charged in any case.
Cosby is currently scheduled to play two shows at the Buell Theatre on Jan. 17. Both shows are still scheduled to continue, but per KUSA, Tickermaster is currently offering refunds.
Denver councilwoman Susan Shepherd has been vocal in her opposition towards Cosby's upcoming performances. "There are people that are hurting. And this doesn't feel good...this feels uncomfortable," she said. "I feel like it was very important for those people in our community to hear from a member in council, a woman in leadership- willing to be sympathetic to how they feel and to stand for them in this situation."
Despite the backlash, AEG Live President Chuck Norris says he cannot cancel the shows because Cosby has not been charged with any crimes. "If the allegations turn out to be true, I'm going to be appalled and disgusted. But at this point, I feel like I have an obligation to the people that want to see the show — and an artist that has not been charged or convicted — I don't think I can play judge and jury," he told KUSA.
KUSA also reports that the organization "Turn Back Cosby" has planned a protest for outside the theater on Saturday, where attorney Gloria Allred is expected to be present.