Labour MP Sir Chris Bryant Reveals Sexual Abuse by Theatre Leader

Labour MP Sir Chris Bryant has disclosed that he was sexually abused as a teenager by Michael Croft, the former head of the National Youth Theatre. In an interview with The Sunday Times, Bryant detailed his experiences during the summer of 1978, when he was 16 years old and participating in the theatre company in London.

Bryant recounted how Croft, who was 40 years his senior, invited him to dinner every evening. One evening, after returning from the bathroom, he found Croft naked except for a silk robe. Croft then made a sexual advance, which Bryant felt he could not refuse, stating it left him feeling “like a 16-year-old whore.” He remarked on the difficult nature of sharing this experience, noting, “I don’t like telling this very much because I’ve not told it very often.”

Reflecting on his time with Croft, he mentioned that the two maintained a friendship afterwards, and he even officiated Croft’s funeral. Bryant described Croft’s behavior as “despicable,” emphasizing the power dynamic and the exploitation involved. “Michael, in my case, managed to spot somebody who was gay at a time when nearly all homosexuality was illegal – certainly very frowned on – so presumed that people would keep a secret,” he added.

Bryant also revealed that he was not the only victim, stating at least one friend from the National Youth Theatre had similar experiences of abuse at Croft’s hands. In a broader context, he mentioned being sexually assaulted by five male MPs during his political career, although he has chosen not to name or report them. He expressed concern about the lack of a reporting system at the time, stating, “I was frightened it would make me look bad.”

Response from the National Youth Theatre

In light of Bryant’s revelations, the National Youth Theatre issued a statement expressing gratitude for his disclosure and regret for the abuse he suffered in the 1970s. The organization reiterated its commitment to supporting all victims of abuse and emphasized its current safeguarding practices.

“We are very sorry that this happened to him and to others who have previously shared with us their accounts of historic abuse by the same perpetrator,” the statement read. The theatre acknowledged that Croft has been deceased since 1986 but assured that any reports made would be handled according to their safeguarding policies.

The statement also recognized that while Bryant mentioned he does not feel damaged by his experiences, many victims face lasting consequences from such abuses of power. The National Youth Theatre encouraged anyone who has experienced abuse to seek support, emphasizing their commitment to listening and treating individuals with care and respect.

Bryant’s experiences and subsequent disclosure highlight ongoing issues of abuse and power dynamics, particularly within artistic and political environments. As he prepares to appear at the Edinburgh International Book Festival this month, his revelations aim to shed light on the importance of addressing historical abuses and ensuring safer environments for future generations.