ROBERT DOWNEY JR has declared ANNE HECHE innocent of tabloid charges she provided the troubled actor with drugs.

Speaking for the first time since his arrest for drug possession (25NOV00) in Palm Springs, California, the actor has blasted a recent story printed in American tabloid the NATIONAL ENQUIRER, which claims Heche had supplied him with drugs. He says, "It's not true."

Downey, who has been working with Heche on the set of ALLY McBEAL adds, "Everyone at Ally McBeal is incredibly supportive. They set up my schedule so my recovery comes first, and the show is second." Downey is scheduled for an arraignment hearing on drug charges in Riverside County, California, on 27 December (00). (KL/WNV/RGS)

Source: WENN