John Jarratt trial: Actor ‘stank of alcohol’ during alleged rape

Australian actor John Jarratt 'stank of alcohol' when he allegedly pinned down and raped his housemate at Randwick, more than 40 years ago.

Jarratt, 66 is facing trial in Sydney's District Court after pleading not guilty.

Crown Prosecutor John Bowers told the jury the alleged victim had been living in the home with Jarratt and his wife Rosa in 1976.

Following a night of celebrations after landing the lead role in the film 'Summer City', it is alleged Jarratt returned to his Randwick home and walked into the room of his 19-year-old housemate.

Mr Bowers said she had been asleep in her room when the blanket was pulled off her.

"She spoke to him and asked him what are you doing?"

She says he then ripped off her underpants and t-shirt, pinned her down and raped her.

"She was unable to make any noise or sound because the accused had one of his hands over her mouth."

Jarratt allegedly whispered in the victim's ear "you're just like a blonde Rosa."

At the time his then wife Rosa was asleep in another room.

Speaking in court today the alleged victim said that afterwards she was "filled with fear and fright, not knowing why it had happened."

His former housemate made a statement to police in 2017.

The court heard Jarratt told police she had invited him into her bedroom and the sex was consensual.

The actor today looked directly at the screen his alleged victim was presented on in court to provide evidence.

The trial is expected to run for a week.