A highly anticipated employment tribunal involving former Channel 5 News presenter Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije has ended abruptly after she withdrew all allegations against her former co-presenter Dan Walker and her employers ITN and Channel 5. The case, which had been expected to be one of the most sensational in daytime television, was settled on its fifth day at the London Tribunals Centre.
Settlement Reached
Ms Vanderpuije, 47, reached a settlement with the two TV companies, resulting in the withdrawal of all her claims of sexism, misogyny, and bullying. The settlement amount has not been disclosed, but sources indicate it is significantly less than the £4 million demanded by her lawyer, Jonathan Coad, two weeks ago. At one point, her legal team had sought £13 million from ITN and its parent company, Paramount. The agreement was reached with no admission of liability from any party, and her legal costs will not be covered by her former employers.
Dan Walker Responds
Classic FM host Dan Walker took to Instagram to express his relief, stating that he had been fully prepared to defend himself against the allegations. He said, 'Channel 5 and ITN have reached an agreement with the claimant. I firmly feel that I should never have been pulled into this; however, I was fully prepared to go to tribunal and defend the allegations which were levelled at me.' He added that he was concerned for Ms Vanderpuije's wellbeing and hoped she found peace. A source close to Walker indicated he would have preferred to have his day in court.
Background of the Case
Ms Vanderpuije had accused Walker, ITN, and Channel 5 of sexism and workplace bullying during her time as co-presenter on Channel 5 News from 2022 to 2023. The allegations were strongly denied by all parties. Evidence was expected to show that Ms Vanderpuije initially did not blame Walker for her fallout with ITN, and that the presenters were on good terms until she was made redundant in autumn 2023. Sources say she had indicated to Walker that her issues were with Channel 5 and ITN, not with him.
Character Witnesses and Previous Inquiry
Walker's legal team had submitted over 50 character witness statements from notable figures including Zoe Ball, Myleene Klass, and various footballers, Olympians, and BBC journalists. In April 2024, Walker was completely exonerated following a workplace probe into serious misconduct related to Ms Vanderpuije's complaints. Sources say there was a lack of evidence to support the claims, and Walker fully cooperated with the inquiry.
Reactions and Implications
Those involved in the legal action were reportedly shocked by Ms Vanderpuije's decision to settle after months of refusal, especially for what is described as a low figure. It is understood that she had sought to block certain claims from being reported but failed to do so. A source commented, 'It's very strange that Claudia-Liza settled like this. She was determined to shame Channel 5, ITN and Dan.' Another source suggested she may have been trying to damage Walker's reputation after he was brought in from the BBC to join her on the programme.
ITN stated, 'We continue to deny these claims in full, and we are glad this matter has been resolved.' Channel 5 added, '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.'
