Actor Iain Robertson has been accused of being a ‘violent alcoholic’ who was physically and emotionally abusive, as stated by a woman during his rape trial. The former River City star, known for his role as drug-dealer Stevie O’Hara in the BBC soap, is facing allegations of behaving in a threatening or abusive manner towards the woman between 2013 and 2015. In addition, he is charged with assaulting her twice in 2014.
Moreover, Robertson faces accusations of raping another woman on multiple occasions between 2018 and 2019, as well as offenses involving two other women over a 16-year period from 2004 to 2020. The actor has denied all allegations against him.
During the trial’s first day, one of the actor’s alleged victims testified in the High Court in Glasgow, recounting how she first met Robertson in 2012 or 2013, shortly after finishing drama school. Initially appearing charming, the 45-year-old actor’s behavior gradually turned controlling and manipulative. The woman described escalating emotional and physical abuse, highlighting Robertson’s attempts to isolate her from friends and family.
She portrayed Robertson as a heavy drinker, often resorting to aggressive and disrespectful behavior when intoxicated, leaving her feeling distressed. The woman also mentioned his involvement with Alcoholics Anonymous and his derogatory language towards her.
Detailing a troubling incident during a holiday trip where Robertson exhibited aggressive behavior, she expressed fear for her safety, feeling trapped in his presence. Another distressing incident before a photoshoot saw Robertson’s threatening and aggressive behavior escalate to the point where physical harm seemed imminent.
The woman recalled an altercation in 2014 where she ended up on the floor after being dragged by her hair, leading her to declare the end of their relationship. Despite this, Robertson bombarded her with numerous calls, texts, and emails, some of which contained apologies.
During the trial, Robertson’s lawyer questioned the woman about the content of the emails, suggesting they lacked clarity on the reasons for apologizing. However, the woman defended her stance, emphasizing the correlation between the intensity of Robertson’s apologies and the severity of the incidents.
The trial presided over by Lady Drummond is ongoing.