Boy George, the former Culture Club singer, appeared in court today accused of chaining a Norwegian male escort to the wall of his Shoreditch home.

The 46-year-old pop-star and DJ denied assaulting and imprisoning Audun Carlsen on April 28 last year when he appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court, east London.

Dressed in black and wearing dark glasses, the 1980s icon stood outside the court and smoked a cigarette before entering the building.

During the 20-minute hearing the singer, appearing under his real name George O’Dowd, spoke only to confirm his name, state his not guilty plea and say he understood the terms of his bail.

The singer spent time talking with lawyers before leaving the court building, thanking fans who turned up to offer support.

He said only “no comment” to waiting press before leaving in a black Volkswagen people carrier. He was bailed to reappear for trial at the same court on November 24.

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