Children's author and comedian David Walliams has been seen in public for the first time since his publisher, HarperCollins, dropped him following allegations he harassed junior female staff members.
Publisher Severs Ties After Investigation
The 54-year-old, one of the UK's most successful children's book authors, was dropped by HarperCollins after allegations surfaced regarding his behaviour towards employees. It is reported that former staff were advised to work in pairs when dealing with Walliams and were told not to visit his home.
The publisher's decision came after a complaint from a junior colleague sparked an internal investigation, which included interviews with other staff. One woman who raised concerns allegedly received a five-figure settlement and has since left the company.
HarperCollins stated it made the choice not to publish further titles with Walliams 'after careful consideration' under its new CEO. A spokesperson said: 'HarperCollins takes employee wellbeing extremely seriously and has processes in place for reporting and investigating concerns.'
Charities and Broadcasters Distance Themselves
The fallout from the allegations has extended beyond publishing. The Children's Trust confirmed it had dropped Walliams as an ambassador earlier in 2025 following a review of its ambassador programme. The charity, which supports children with brain injuries, said he had not been actively involved for several years.
Meanwhile, the BBC stated it has 'no future projects' directly involving David Walliams. However, it refused to pull his appearance from a Christmas special of 'Would I Lie To You?', despite reports that during the recording, Walliams made two Nazi salutes which landed 'awkwardly' with the audience and host Rob Brydon.
Further distancing occurred when Waterstones removed Walliams from a children's book festival in Dundee where he was scheduled to host a Q&A session in February.
Walliams Breaks Cover and Denies Wrongdoing
Walliams was photographed grimacing, with a dog lead around his neck, while walking his dogs in a black tracksuit. This marks his first public appearance since the allegations gained widespread attention.
The comedian and former 'Britain's Got Talent' judge has denied any wrongdoing. He says he was not informed of any allegations or made aware of an investigation and is currently taking legal advice. The actor left Britain's Got Talent in 2022 after derogatory comments he made about contestants were leaked.
Despite the controversy, Walliams's literary success is significant. Since he began writing in 2008, he has published more than 40 books, selling over 60 million copies in 55 languages. HarperCollins published his first children's book, 'The Boy in the Dress', and several works have been adapted for television.
