Comedian and author David Walliams has made a return to live performance, staging two intimate shows at a north London pub theatre. This move comes just weeks after his long-standing children's book publisher, HarperCollins, severed ties with him following serious allegations.
Intimate Comeback Amidst Ongoing Controversy
The performances took place on 17 January 2026 at the Circle & Star Theatre, a compact 50-seat venue. Advertised as fundraising events, the gigs included a 'family matinee' for parents and children, followed by an 'evening of humour'. This marks Walliams's first public stage appearance since the publisher's decision in December.
HarperCollins ended its publishing relationship with the star after allegations surfaced regarding inappropriate behaviour towards young, female staff members. Walliams has consistently denied these claims. This controversy followed his earlier departure from the judging panel of Britain's Got Talent in 2023, after a leaked transcript revealed he had made obscene remarks about contestants during filming.
Future Engagements and Professional Fallout
Despite the recent scandals, Walliams is not retreating from the spotlight entirely. He has two further 'An Evening With...' tour dates scheduled for late March, indicating a planned return to wider touring. However, the professional repercussions continue.
In a significant blow to his standing within the literary world, Walliams has been removed from the lineup of the upcoming Waterstones Children's Book Festival. This decision underscores the ongoing impact of the allegations on his career within the sector that brought him immense success as a bestselling children's author.
A Career at a Crossroads
David Walliams's career now appears at a critical juncture. The intimate, low-profile nature of his recent London gigs contrasts sharply with his former status as a mainstream television star and literary giant. While he maintains a live performance schedule, his reputation and professional relationships, particularly in publishing, have undeniably suffered.
The coming months will reveal whether this stage return represents the first step in a broader public rehabilitation or a more niche-focused path for the comedian. For now, his future in children's publishing remains deeply uncertain.
