TV presenter Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije has withdrawn all allegations against her former Channel 5 News co-host Dan Walker after reaching a 'mutual agreement' with the broadcaster and ITN. The claims, which included unfair dismissal, discrimination on grounds of race and sex, and breach of contract, were dismissed at an employment tribunal hearing on Friday.
Vanderpuije, who co-hosted a show with Walker for a year between 2022 and 2023, had alleged a 'toxic culture of racism, sexism, misogyny and bullying' in the Channel 5 newsroom. Her lawyer had previously stated that she was a whistleblower who made protected disclosures about the editorial content reflecting a racist culture.
In a statement, Vanderpuije's lawyers confirmed: 'Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije can confirm that a mutual agreement has been reached with ITN and Channel 5 in respect of the matters subject to tribunal proceedings. Claudia-Liza fully withdraws her allegations relating to Dan Walker and does not intend to repeat or pursue them.'
Channel 5 and ITN both welcomed the resolution, with a Channel 5 spokesperson saying: 'We strongly reject the claims that were made and are pleased that this matter has been resolved and that all the allegations relating to Dan Walker have been withdrawn.'
Walker, 49, who was due to appear at the tribunal, expressed relief on Instagram, stating he 'firmly feels' he should never have been involved. He thanked his legal team and colleagues for their support, adding: 'Through all of this, I have always been concerned for the claimant's wellbeing, and that has not changed. I hope she finds peace.'
