Broadcaster Dan Walker has secured the public endorsement of legendary sports presenter Sue Barker as he confronts serious allegations from his former Channel 5 News co-anchor, Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije. The accusations, which include claims of sexism, misogyny, and bullying, are set to be examined during a five-week employment tribunal hearing in London, commencing next week.
High-Profile Tribunal Battle
Walker, aged 49, is named as a respondent alongside ITN, the producer of Channel 5 News, and Paramount, the channel's owner. Vanderpuije, 47, has lodged the claims, which the former BBC Breakfast host vehemently denies. The tribunal will scrutinise the allegations in detail, with both parties preparing extensive evidence.
Character Witnesses and Support
In his defence, Walker, a father-of-three and devout Christian, has amassed over 50 character witness statements from a diverse group, including footballers, Olympians, BBC journalists, presenters, and other colleagues. Sue Barker, his former BBC Sport colleague, has now added her voice to his supporters, speaking openly to The Sun.
Barker stated: 'I don't feel I'm putting my head above the parapet speaking up for Dan. I know he'd do the same. I have sat next to him in production many times and he really is one of the nicest, most courteous and hard-working presenters I have broadcast with.' She emphasised her willingness to provide 100 per cent support, encouraging Walker to stay strong.
Previous Investigation and Context
In April 2024, Walker was 'completely exonerated' following a workplace probe into allegations of serious misconduct. Sources indicated a lack of evidence to support the claims, noting Walker's full cooperation. It is understood this investigation related to Vanderpuije's complaints, none of which were upheld.
A source familiar with the matter told The Mail on Sunday: 'Dan absolutely denies any sexism, misogyny, racism or bullying. It has been hanging over him for some years now. He will be there to tell the judge the truth, backed by tons of witness statements.' The source added that Walker has been stunned and upset by the accusations.
Internal Dynamics and Fallout
According to reports, the dispute escalated to the point where Vanderpuije was banned from the newsroom by ITN's chief executive, Rachel Corp. Vanderpuije responded by circulating email exchanges to colleagues, which reportedly led to a loss of internal support as colleagues remained loyal to Walker.
An insider claimed: 'Internally, he really is regarded as a nice guy. He looks out for other colleagues and for younger staff. He is the antidote to some of the other starry presenters you see on TV.' The insider suggested that Vanderpuije's naming of Walker in the tribunal diminished sympathy for her case.
Legal Claims and Responses
Vanderpuije's lawyer, Jonathan Coad, issued a statement alleging that she was a victim of a sham redundancy due to whistleblowing on a toxic culture of racism, sexism, misogyny, and bullying at Channel 5 News. The statement claimed that ITN and Channel 5 attempted to cover up this culture, breaching statutory obligations.
However, Vanderpuije's representative has stated that she is constrained for legal reasons from commenting further until the trial, where her barrister will present full evidence. Representatives for Walker and ITN have been approached for comment but have not yet responded publicly.
Background and Career Impact
The claims arise after Vanderpuije departed Channel 5 in 2024, following over five years as a presenter. She worked alongside Walker for the last 12 months after he joined the channel in 2023, a move described as a huge coup. An ITN insider noted that Walker's arrival sidelined Vanderpuije, a common trait in TV news, leading to her redundancy consultation.
As the tribunal approaches, both sides are preparing for a contentious legal battle, with Walker relying on character endorsements and Vanderpuije focusing on her whistleblowing claims. The outcome could have significant implications for workplace culture in broadcasting.
