Michael Barrymore has apologised for the death of a man found floating in his swimming pool – but maintained he is "100% innocent".
In an emotional interview, the former comedian and TV presenter talked about the death of 31-year-old Stuart Lubbock, whose body was found in the swimming pool of the star's Essex home in 2001.
Six years later, Barrymore was arrested in connection with the death.
After he was released, Barrymore, who had been one of the best known TV stars at the time of the death, withdrew from public life.
Barrymore fled his home and refused to comment during an inquest into Mr Lubbock's death.
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Speaking on Piers Morgan's ITV programme Life Stories, Barrymore said: "I had nothing to do with Stuart. I am innocent. I am not 99.9% innocent. I am 100% innocent and I am entitled to walk around with my head held high for the rest of my life."
Barrymore, 67, won compensation from Essex Police last year for wrongful arrest.
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In the interview, he said he "couldn't be more sorry" for his behaviour that night and explained he left his home over fears it would be "surrounded" by press.
Speaking of Mr Lubbock's family, he said: "That family deserves proper answers. No parent should have to bury their young."
He added: "I didn't facilitate him taking drugs. I was advised (to stay silent) by lawyers at the time. You don't have to answer in a coroner's court.
"I can see lots of things in hindsight. I'm not making excuses. I f***ed up. I f***ed up. What more do you want? I'm sorry. I couldn't be more sorry.
"I have to live in hope that somehow, somewhere, there will be an answer. I just hope it will be within what is left of my life.Read More – Source
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