Pete Doherty fails to turn up for his own film premiere

Doherty, 33, plays the lead role in the French film, but didn't make it to the Leicester Square premiere here, reported Digital Spy online.

The film has largely received poor reviews so far but Doherty's Babyshambles bandmate Drew McConnell has defended the singer's debut acting role.

"I thought it was an epic document depicting the struggle of the pre-Victorian pet against the tyranny of 18th Century Europe. It's a triumph! It's his first role, and it's a lead one. I'm proud of him," he said.

Doherty's co-star Charlotte Gainsbourg was also a no-show at the premiere. Gainsbourg has not been involved in the press tour since Doherty alleged that they had an affair while filming.

The ex-Libertine recently said that he and Amy Winehouse were "lovers".

"Confession of a Child of the Century" is in UK cinemas on December 7.