Charlie Rose Denied Sexual Allegations Before Apologetic Response

TMZ reporters tracked down the 75-year-old outside of his NYC apartment and grilled him about the recent accusations that he harassed and groped colleagues so often that his shoulder rubs were known as “the crusty paw” around the office.

The tabloid photographer asked him if he had anything to say to the eight women who have accused him of “wrongdoings.” His response? “It’s not wrongdoings,” Rose muttered before quickly entering his apartment.

This response is in stark contrast to the apologetic tone he struck yesterday in a written statement on the allegations, which accuse him of making lewd phone calls and strutting in front of colleagues naked, among other acts.

“It is essential that these women know I hear them and that I deeply apologize for my inappropriate behavior. I am greatly embarrassed,” he wrote. “I have behaved insensitively at times, and I accept responsibility for that.”