Emmys: Bill Cosby joke from Jimmy Kimmel falls flat

Emmy host Jimmy Kimmel stunned the audience at the Microsoft Theater on Sunday night when an award presenter was announced that no one was expecting to see: "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Bill Cosby."

The crowd emitted a short gasp, and surprised expressions washed over the faces of stars Tina Fey and Ellie Kemper, among others. The moment passed quickly, however.

"He's not really here," Kimmel said, wryly apologetic. "I just wanted to see what you guys would do."

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It's safe to assume that the former star of the long-running Cosby Show wasn't anywhere near the award ceremony Sunday night. Cosby has been lying low in the wake of numerous sexual assault allegations, including the drugging and sexual coercion of nearly 50 women since 1965. Accusers began coming forward en masse in 2014 when a routine by comedian Hannibal Buress drew renewed attention to the allegations.

See photos from Jimmy Kimmel's opening monologue:

Many of the alleged crimes fall outside the statutes of limitations for criminal legal proceedings, but several civil lawsuits have been brought against the comedian.

A criminal trial date has been set for June 5, 2017. Cosby, who played beloved TV dad and doctor Cliff Huxtable, faces a maximum of 15-30 years in prison if found guilty on all three counts and a fine up to $25,000.

See photos of all of the 2016 Emmys red carpet looks: