Rolf Harris Arrested: Australian Entertainer Busted For Allegations Of Sexual Abuse

Rolf Harris, a veteran entertainer known for his music, art and as a presenter of TV shows about animals, was reportedly arrested as part of a police investigation into sexual abuse allegations stemming from the Jimmy Savile scandal, British media reported Friday.

According to BBC, Harris was arrested March 28 as part of Operation Yewtree, an investigation launched after revelations that Savile targeted hundreds of young victims over five decades.

Though Harris was allegedly first questioned by authorities in November, he was not named at the time or following his recent arrest.

Once news of his incarceration went public, however, family and friends of the Australian-born entertainer rallied round to support him with many arriving at his home in Bray, Berkshire throughout the morning.

With his arrest, Harris became the 11th man to be detained by the investigation.

He is described by police as Yewtree 5 and currently remains free on bail while police continue to investigate the claims.

Others arrested in the operation include comedian Freddie Starr, pop star Gary Glitter, and publicist Max Clifford.

Originally from Perth, in Western Australia, Harris rose to fame as a broadcaster, painter and singing star.

In addition to producing multiple musical hits, including “Tie Me Kangaroo Down, Sport” — which he once performed with The Beatles — and “Two Little Boys,” Harris has hosted television shows, painted an official portrait of the queen for her 80th birthday in 2006, and performed at the monarch’s Diamond Jubilee concert last year.

To this day, Harris remains a hugely popular entertainer in Europe with more than one million viewers tuning in on Wednesday night to watch Rolf’s Animal Clinic on UK’s Channel 5.

Here is a clip from Rolf’s Animal Clinic: