Pressure is mounting on ITV boss Kevin Lygo to explain his part in catapulting rapist Russell Brand to success during his reign as a senior executive at Channel 4.

Brand presented Big Brother's spin-off show between 2004 and 2007, as well as The Russell Brand Show for one series which was screened in 2006.

Mr Lygo also oversaw Brand's Ponderland for two series in 2007 and 2008 as the channel's director of television and content.

Meanwhile, in his current role as ITV director of television, Mr Lygo has overseen content including Britain's Got Talent which, although made by production company Fremantle, he would have had responsibilities for in the time David Walliams was a judge from 2012 to 2022.

Walliams, 55, was also directly recruited by ITV, with Mr Lygo at the helm, to host chat show The Nightly Show in 2017. 

Allegations emerged this week that Walliams exploited his celebrity status to prey on teenage girls and young women for sex – allegations he vehemently denies.

One industry source said: 'It's unfortunate for Kevin that he was really high up at both broadcasters when Russell and David were among their biggest stars. What did he know?

'We are now being told that Walliams' behaviour was an open secret, as was Brand's horrific behaviour. 

'While Kevin isn't particularly sociable with talent, he does pride himself on knowing what is going on.' 

Sources questioned if he was aware of a complaint in 2009 by a female Channel 4 worker over a forced massage. 

She claims her grievance was 'brushed under the carpet'.

The network acknowledged that the complaint was mishandled. He was convicted last week of sexually assaulting her.

When the Daily Mail approached Mr Lygo, his spokesman said: 'Our thoughts are with those who have spoken out and we are very sorry to hear about their experiences.

'Fremantle have confirmed no complaint has ever been made to them about David Walliams' behaviour. 

'And our records show no complainants have raised concerns with ITV about David Walliams' behaviour.'