David Walliams is facing renewed backlash after an old clip from a 2009 episode of 8 Out of 10 Cats resurfaced online, showing him making a grim joke about Michael Jackson. The resurfacing comes just hours after the comedian was accused of sexual assault, grooming, and harassment.
In the footage, Walliams, who was seated next to Sean Lock, raised his hand mid-show and called for host Jimmy Carr's attention. "Jimmy, Jimmy, Jimmy," Walliams said, prompting Carr to shush him before allowing the Little Britain star to speak.
The Joke That Sparked Outrage
Walliams then quipped: "Have you heard Michael Jackson is dead? People have been talking about it because he's a controversial figure. I mean, if it's wrong to share your bed with 13-year-old boys, then lock me up and throw away the key."
The moment has been circulating on social media this week, drawing widespread criticism. One X user, re-sharing footage of the episode, wrote: "How is this funny in any way?"
Sean Lock's Reaction Highlighted
Several people pointed out that Sean Lock, who passed away in 2021, was the only one who did not laugh or appear amused. Lock, a vocal critic of both Walliams and his friend, convicted rapist Russell Brand, has been regarded as one of the few industry figures who called both men out.
"Sean is the only one not laughing. Sean is the only one who called out Brand," noted an X user. "How I wish Sean Lock were here to see how the mighty have fallen," remarked another.
Allegations and Fallout
Walliams, 55, is reportedly staying at a psychiatric hospital. The actor, who attempted to secure an injunction last week, has been accused of using his star power to prey on young women, as well as teenagers as young as 15.
The allegations, made in a joint investigation by The Guardian and ITN, were published on Tuesday (10 November). In the 24 hours since, the comedian has been dropped by the Independent Talent Group, and his sketch shows Little Britain and Come Fly With Me have been removed from BBC iPlayer.
Stars Speak Out
Several stars have spoken out, including comedian Lucy Beaumont, who confirmed she was one of the whistleblowers who reported Walliams.
Responding to the allegations, the Britain's Got Talent star said, "Looking back, I realise that at times I behaved thoughtlessly towards other people I had casual sexual relationships with. And whilst a power imbalance is inevitable when one party is famous, abusing that power is something else entirely and it is something I never did."
Walliams concluded: "I am not a sexual predator. I have not broken the law, but I am devastated that some of the women I met 10 to 20 years ago have now expressed hurt or anger towards me."
