She also claimed that an investigation into his alleged misconduct was biased against her, and that key corroborating witnesses to her allegations were not interviewed.

Seacrest, who hosts American Idol, has denied Hardy’s allegations in a statement, declaring that her claims were “investigated by an independent third-party over the course of a two-month process and involved dozens of interviews that included me, the accuser and countless others".

He added: "Ultimately, my name was cleared. I eagerly participated in the investigation in order to demonstrate my innocence because I know my truth, and I believe in due process.”

E! also said an "extremely comprehensive" investigation using an external lawyer had found "insufficient evidence to substantiate allegations against Seacrest".

As well as apparently being given the cold shoulder by some stars, Oscars fans were convinced that Taraji P Henson showed contempt for him during an interview. 

While speaking about Oscar nominee Mary J Blige, Empire and Hidden Figures star Henson told Seacrest while tapping his face: "The Universe has a way of taking care of the good people, you know what I mean?"

One Oscars viewer tweeted: "Damn taraji shaded him cursed him gave him the evil eye and all that sheesh."

"I literally just gasped out loud at Taraji bopping Seacrest on the chin while shading his character," another said.

Other female stars did stop for an interview, including Mary J. Blige, Allison Janney and Whoopi Goldberg.

The allegation against Seacrest was lodged as high-profile entertainment industry figures including Harvey Weisntein, Kevin Spacey and Louis CK faced allegations of sexual misconduct.