UPDATED 1:57pm: Three more women have accused comedian Bill Cosby of drugging and sexually assaulting them.

Lawyer Gloria Allred has held a news conference with the women, who described unwanted encounters with Cosby between 1981 and 1996 in LA and Las Vegas.

Ms Allred also urged people not to pay to see Cosby on his upcoming three-night tour in Canada.

More than 15 women have come forward with claims Cosby sexually assaulted them.

The star of The Cosby Show hasn't been charged in connection with any of the allegations.

Rashad stands by Cosby 

Phylicia Rashad is backing the man who played her husband on the Cosby Show for eight years.

The actress has spoken to ABC News today about the claims by more than 15 women that Bill Cosby drugged and sexually assaulted them.

Rashad has nothing but good things to say about her former co-star.

"He's a genius.

"He is generous, he is kind, he's inclusive."