Morgan Freeman, the Oscar-winning Hollywood star, has been accused of harassment or inappropriate behaviour by eight women.

The allegations were made as part of an investigation by CNN, and the alleged victims included one of the television network's own entertainment journalists.

Two other journalists were also among those making claims against the 80-year-old actor, along with women who had worked on film sets with him, and at his production company.

According to CNN, the eight women claimed to have been subjected to "what some called harassment and others called inappropriate behaviour".

In a statement Freeman apologised for his behaviour, adding that it was "never my intent" to make women feel uncomfortable.

He said: "Anyone who knows me or has worked with me knows I am not someone who would intentionally offend or knowingly make anyone feel uneasy.

"I apologise to anyone who felt uncomfortable or disrespected - that was never my intent."

One production assistant on the 2017 comedy film Going in Style claimed Freeman "kept trying to lift up my skirt and asking if I was wearing underwear".

She said Alan Arkin, the actor, who was also in the film, told Freeman to stop, and "Morgan got freaked out and didn't know what to say".