Plot to blackmail well-loved British comedian unveiled as man arrested

A man has been arrested on suspicion of blackmailing one of Britain's best-loved comedians after he attempted to extort money from the entertainer by threatening to publicise vile and defamatory claims against him. In an article published by The Sun, a source claimed that the suspect bombarded the star, who is middle-aged, with "menacing phone calls and text messages over several months".

The suspect, a German national who works in the arts, was arrested at his East London home. Officers seized electronic devices during a search of the premises and are examining them. Meanwhile, the entertainer, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is reportedly being supported by police and has provided a full statement, the source said.

They went on: "He is said to have received messages and calls from a blackmailer who was threatening to publicly smear him with false accusations.

"These accusations were disgusting in nature and totally false - and they have caused the victim considerable distress."

Scotland Yard confirmed the suspect's arrest in a statement, with a spokesperson sharing: "On Friday, June 27, a 35-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of harassment, blackmail and malicious communications.

"He was taken into custody and later bailed to return pending further inquiries. He is next due back on a date in mid-September. The arrest follows allegations reported to police on June 26. The investigation is ongoing."