A Massachusetts federal judge will not dismiss a defamation lawsuit brought against comedian Bill Cosby – by three women who say he sexually abused them decades ago.

The legal blow to Cosby came today.

The comedian has been accused of sexual assault by dozens of women.

The women bringing the defamation lawsuit claim Cosby’s representatives damaged their reputations – by denying their allegations in sometimes disparaging language. Cosby’s lawyers had asked the judge to dismiss their suit.

They argued the remarks were personal opinions protected by the First Amendment – and legal declarations made in Cosby’s defence.

The women have accused Cosby of drugging them – and then having unwanted sexual contact with them.