The BBC has unveiled the first details of its Panorama investigation into former West Ham United chairman David Sullivan. The 77-year-old will be the subject of an episode airing tonight, titled Predator: The Billionaire Football Boss. The broadcaster's TV listing reveals the programme will centre on his alleged behaviour over the past several decades.
The listing states: 'A joint investigation by Panorama and the Times newspaper into the behaviour of David Sullivan, who has announced he is stepping down as co-chair and director of West Ham United Football Club. Over decades, he has made millions from pornography, newspapers and football.'
Mr Sullivan resigned as chairman with immediate effect on June 6, citing a need to fight 'false allegations' about his private life. In a statement, he said: 'After very careful consideration and with a heavy heart, I have decided to resign as joint-chair and director of West Ham United FC with immediate effect. This has been an incredibly painful decision to make, but it is one made out of love, respect, and responsibility toward a football club and a fan base that deserve absolute unity and focus moving forward.'
He added: 'After a lifetime spent building businesses in the adult industry, in which I have met thousands of women, it is sadly inevitable that a small number of improper conduct claims are being made against me. I categorically deny these claims.'
Mr Sullivan claimed the allegations had been 'sensationalised by the media' and stated his intention to sue the BBC for libel. A club statement confirmed his resignation, noting that 'none of the allegations relate to West Ham United or any of its operations.'
Predator: The Billionaire Football Boss airs on BBC One at 8pm tonight.
