David Walliams' Tour Axed Following Publisher Departure in Latest Career Blow
The remainder of David Walliams' live theatre tour has been abruptly cancelled, marking another significant setback for the comedian and author. This development follows his recent departure from publisher HarperCollins amid allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
Tour Dates Quietly Cancelled
Walliams' one-man show, An Audience with David Walliams, was scheduled to appear at The University of Exeter on March 24 and Cadogan Hall in London on March 25. Both events have now been quietly cancelled with less than two weeks remaining before the performances.
The star had promised fans "an unforgettable evening of laughter, storytelling, and surprises" but poor ticket sales appear to have contributed to the decision. In February, only 340 tickets had been sold for the Exeter venue, which has a capacity of 1,000 people.
Growing List of Career Setbacks
This cancellation represents the latest in a series of professional challenges for the former television favourite:
- Lost his position as a judge on Britain's Got Talent after disrespectful comments about contestants were leaked
- Removed as narrator from comedy clip show It'll Be Alright On The Night and replaced by Tom Allen
- Dropped by publisher HarperCollins in December over allegations of inappropriate behaviour toward female staff
- Excluded from Waterstones' Children's Book Festival 2026
Walliams' Response to Allegations
The 54-year-old comedian has strongly denied the allegations made by HarperCollins. His spokesperson stated: "He has never been informed of any allegations raised against him. 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."
Previous Legal Action and Career Highlights
When Walliams left Britain's Got Talent in 2023 after ten years on the panel, he launched legal action against production company Fremantle. He accused them of data protection breaches that caused financial and mental harm following the leaking of private comments about contestants. The parties eventually reached an "amicable resolution" and settlement.
Despite recent challenges, Walliams has enjoyed substantial career success:
- Co-created and starred in Little Britain with Matt Lucas, earning Baftas, Emmys and the Rose D'Or
- Sold more than 60 million copies worldwide as a children's author with titles including Gangsta Granny, The Boy In The Dress and Mr Stink
Previous tour dates in Hull, York and Derby took place in November 2025, before the HarperCollins allegations became public. Ticket prices for those shows ranged from £45 to £65, with VIP meet and greet options available.
Fans attempting to purchase tickets for the cancelled shows now encounter messages stating "Tickets are currently not on sale" online, while those contacting Cadogan Hall's box office have been informed the event was "cancelled by the promoter."
