David Walliams has been dropped from the Waterstones Children's Book Festival following allegations of inappropriate behaviour. The bookshop chain confirmed that the bestselling author will no longer appear at the Dundee event on 7 February, after his publisher HarperCollins decided not to release any new titles by him.
HarperCollins cut ties with Walliams after an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards young women, according to reports. Complaints were made that he had harassed junior female staff at HarperCollins UK. One woman who raised concerns is understood to have left the company after reaching a settlement that included a five-figure payout.
A spokesperson for Walliams said he had never been informed of any allegations and strongly denied behaving inappropriately. “He was not party to any investigation or given any opportunity to answer questions. David strongly denies that he has behaved inappropriately and is taking legal advice,” the spokesperson said.
HarperCollins stated: “After careful consideration, and under the leadership of its new CEO, HarperCollins UK has decided not to publish any new titles by David Walliams.” Waterstones removed Walliams from its festival lineup, with a spokesperson confirming the change.
The controversy comes as Walliams is scheduled to appear on a festive special of the comedy panel show Would I Lie to You? on Boxing Day. The episode attracted earlier controversy over Nazi salutes during recording, for which the BBC apologised. A Banijay UK spokesperson said the segment “would not be broadcast under any circumstances.” The BBC said it has no future projects directly involving Walliams.
Two of Walliams’ books, Mr Stink and The Boy in the Dress, were adapted for television and broadcast on CBBC on Sunday.
