Robert Pattinson speaks for the first time since Kristen Stewart's affair

Robert Pattinson endured several awkward questions in his first televised interview since Kristen Stewart's affair was splashed across the world's press.

The 26-year-old British actor has been out of sight since his girlfriend and Twilight co-star was photographed with her arms around director Rupert Sanders last month.

He may have been relieved by the first question asked by Jon Stewart on The Daily Show: "What have you been up to?"

But it became clear that it was not just a casual chat when Steward handed him a tub of Ben & Jerry's ice cream, saying "We're just a couple of gals talking".

He continued: "The last time I had a bad break-up, Ben & Jerry's got me through the tough times, so I thought you and I could talk about things?"

Robert Pattinson joked about how he should have hired a publicist, since most actors never approach an awkward interview without scripting some answers.

Stewart managed to break the awkward atmosphere when he put on a feminine voice and said: "Boy, you are better off without... so kick her to the curb!" Pattinson couldn't hold back a giggle.

Referring to the heartbreak of many Twilight fans, Stewart joked "the world has ended". Pattinson quipped back "it has," but quickly added "that was my attempt at a joke.'

Last month, a newspaper printed photos of Kristen Stewart with her arms around director Rupert Sanders, breaking the hearts of Twilight fans worldwide.

Kristen Stewart and the director have both issued public apologies to their respective partners.