TRAILER PARK BOYS' MIKE SMITH CHARGED WITH SEXUAL ASSAULT - REPORTS
Actor Mike Smith, who plays character Bubbles on the Canadian sitcom Trailer Park Boys, has stepped back from the show after being charged with sexual assault.The 53-year-old was charged on 2 October by Halifax police for an alleged assault dating to 2017, according to court documents obtained by Canadian media outlets.
Trailer Park Boys Inc, which oversees the show's production and streaming, said in a statement that it is taking the matter seriously and that Mr Smith is stepping away from his managing director role.
"We recognize how difficult an allegation of this nature is for all involved," it said.
"Out of respect for the legal process, we will not comment further on the case." Set in a fictional trailer park in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia, the show follows the adventures of three longtime friends and petty criminals.
The Canadian mockumentary series first began airing in 2001 before ending in 2007, but was later revived by Netflix.
Season 13 is expected next year.
According to media reports, the alleged assault took place in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, on 30 December 2017.
There is a publication ban in place protecting the identity of the alleged victim and Mr Smith has been ordered to not contact the complainant.
Details on the alleged assault have not been released.
The actor has yet to issue a public statement on the allegations.
The BBC has contacted his representative for comment.
He is scheduled to appear in court in Halifax on 10 November.
