Cryptic Cosby comments on sex assault claims

Comedian Bill Cosby who has stayed mum on allegations of having drugged and sexually assaulted numerous women, in cryptic comments urged US media to remain "neutral" in its reporting on the scandal, news reports said Sunday.

His comments were directed in particular at America's black media, with which he has had a hot-and-cold relationship over the years.

"Let me say this. I only expect the black media to uphold the standards of excellence in journalism and when you do that you have to go in with a neutral mind," Cosby reportedly told the New York Post newspaper when reached by telephone Friday at his Massachusetts home.

The Post wrote that Cosby, 77, also said his wife was sticking by his side, despite the growing number of women claiming that "The Cosby Show" star had drugged and raped them.

The veteran actor, described by the Post as sounding "upbeat," said he had been advised by his lawyers against talking with reporters about the allegations.