Former Spandau Ballet Frontman Found Guilty of Rape and Attempted Rape
Ross Davidson, a 37-year-old former frontman of the iconic 1980s band Spandau Ballet, is now facing a significant prison sentence after being convicted of rape and attempted rape. The Aberdeen-born performer, who also starred in the West End musical We Will Rock You, was found guilty by jurors at Wood Green Crown Court following more than 11 hours of deliberation.
Details of the Assaults and Court Proceedings
Davidson, who performed under the stage name Ross Wild, had pleaded not guilty to the rape of a woman in London in March 2015, as well as the attempted rape and sexual assault of another woman in Thailand in December 2019. He maintained that all sexual encounters were consensual. However, the jury rejected his claims, finding him guilty on all charges.
Prosecutor Richard Hearnden described Davidson as someone who was seen as "a bit of a sex symbol" but had "a much darker side" that the victims did not initially notice. Hearnden argued that Davidson's actions stemmed from an expectation of "sex on demand," leading him to commit rape and sexual assault when he felt denied.
Victim Testimonies and Evidence Presented
The court heard harrowing accounts from both victims. One woman testified that Davidson attacked her while she was asleep in his bed, leaving her feeling "helpless" and "scared to react." She recalled that before the assault, Davidson had mentioned his interest in having sex with someone in a helpless state, such as a mannequin. Additionally, she stated that he placed her in a sex collar and wrist cuffs without permission, causing confusion and shock.
The second victim, who was assaulted in Thailand, woke up to find Davidson attempting to have sex without her consent or a condom. She managed to talk him down, after which he said, "thanks for being cool about it." Detectives later discovered a secret video on Davidson's phone, showing her being fondled while asleep and unresponsive in a hotel room. This led to a voyeurism charge, to which Davidson pleaded guilty.
Davidson's Defence and Emotional Courtroom Moments
In his defence, Davidson described himself as "sex positive," emphasising open dialogue about sexual preferences, including bondage, restraint, and group sex. He admitted to creating the video for "selfish reasons, for sexual gratification" but denied the sexual assault allegations, calling them "an out-and-out lie." During the trial, he became emotional, telling the jury, "I wish I had never done it."
The victims strongly dismissed any suggestion of consent, with one asking rhetorically, "Why would I want a man to touch me when I am in a state of unconsciousness?"
Sentencing and Next Steps
A further hearing has been scheduled for February 4 at Wood Green Crown Court, where a sentencing date is expected to be discussed. Davidson, who resides in Finchley, north London, now awaits his fate as the legal process continues.
