David Walliams Allegations: HarperCollins Drops Children’s Author as Comedian Strongly Denies Inappropriate Behaviour Claims

Little Britain star and bestselling children’s author David Walliams has become the centre of renewed public scrutiny after his publisher, HarperCollins UK, confirmed it will no longer publish new titles by the writer. The decision follows reports of an internal investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour, claims which Walliams has “strongly denied”, stating he was never informed of any formal allegations nor given an opportunity to respond.

The development has reignited debate across the UK entertainment and publishing industries, raising questions about workplace conduct, due process, and the growing reputational risks faced by public figures in media, comedy, and children’s publishing.

HarperCollins Ends Publishing Relationship

In a statement released to the Press Association, HarperCollins UK said that the decision was made “after careful consideration” and under the leadership of its new chief executive. The publisher confirmed that while Walliams is aware of the decision, it would not comment further on internal matters.

“HarperCollins takes employee wellbeing extremely seriously and has processes in place for reporting and investigating concerns,” the statement read. “To respect the privacy of individuals, we do not comment on internal matters.”

The move effectively ends a highly successful publishing partnership. Walliams has been one of the UK’s most commercially successful children’s authors of the past decade, with books including The Boy in the Dress, Gangsta Granny, Fing, Ratburger, and The World’s Worst Children series selling millions of copies worldwide.

Walliams “Strongly Denies” Allegations

A spokesperson for Walliams responded firmly, rejecting the claims and criticising the process that led to HarperCollins’ decision.

“David has never been informed of any allegations raised against him by HarperCollins,” the spokesperson said. “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.”

According to reporting first published by The Telegraph, the investigation centred on claims that Walliams had “harassed” young women. No formal legal findings have been made public, and no criminal charges have been announced. Walliams’ representatives maintain that he disputes the allegations in full.

A Major Figure in Children’s Publishing

The controversy marks a dramatic turn for a figure long regarded as a cornerstone of the UK children’s book market. Since transitioning from television comedy into publishing, Walliams has often been compared to Roald Dahl for his ability to connect with young readers through humour, irreverence, and emotional storytelling.

Several of his books have been adapted for television, including Gangsta Granny, which aired as a BBC one-hour special in 2013 and later received a sequel in 2022 starring Sheridan Smith. His work has also been widely promoted in schools, libraries, and literacy campaigns across the UK.

Industry analysts note that the HarperCollins decision may have significant commercial implications, not only for Walliams’ future publishing prospects but also for retailers and educational partners that have relied heavily on his titles.

Britain’s Got Talent and Past Controversies

The latest allegations come against the backdrop of earlier controversies linked to Walliams’ television career. From 2012 to 2022, he served as a judge on ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent (BGT), becoming one of the show’s most recognisable faces.

However, Walliams left the programme in 2022 following the leak of footage from January 2020 in which he made “disrespectful comments” about auditioning contestants during filming breaks at the London Palladium. After the comments became public, Walliams issued an apology, acknowledging that his remarks were inappropriate.

In 2023, BGT producer Fremantle also apologised and confirmed it had reached an “amicable resolution” with Walliams. The comedian had been pursuing legal action against the company, alleging misuse of private information and breaches of the UK General Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

While the BGT controversy was resolved without admission of liability, it remains part of the broader public narrative surrounding Walliams’ conduct behind the scenes.

Legal and Reputational Implications

Media law experts say the HarperCollins decision highlights a growing trend within the UK publishing industry, where companies are increasingly sensitive to reputational risk, even in the absence of court rulings.

“In the current climate, publishers and broadcasters are under intense pressure to act swiftly when concerns are raised,” said one industry analyst. “However, this can create tension between safeguarding responsibilities and ensuring that individuals are treated fairly and given the right to respond.”

Walliams’ spokesperson confirmed that he is taking legal advice, suggesting potential legal action could follow depending on how the situation develops. Any such case would likely focus on employment law, contractual obligations, or reputational damage rather than criminal proceedings.

Public Reaction and Divided Opinion

Reaction on social media has been sharply divided. Some commentators have expressed support for Walliams, emphasising the importance of due process and cautioning against trial by media. Others have welcomed HarperCollins’ decision as a necessary step to prioritise workplace safety and accountability.

Parents and educators have also raised questions about the future of Walliams’ books in schools and libraries. While existing titles remain in circulation, it remains unclear whether institutions will reassess their use amid the controversy.

Retailers have not announced any immediate plans to withdraw Walliams’ books, and HarperCollins’ statement applies only to the publication of new titles.

Career Beyond Publishing

Beyond books and television, Walliams has maintained a high public profile through charity work and presenting roles. In 2017, he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the arts and charity.

One of his most publicised charitable efforts came when he raised £2 million for Sport Relief by swimming 140 miles down the River Thames, an achievement that earned widespread praise at the time.

Whether these contributions will continue to shape public perception amid the current allegations remains to be seen.

What Happens Next?

At present, neither HarperCollins nor Walliams has indicated what the next steps may be. The publisher has declined to provide further details about its investigation, while Walliams maintains that he was excluded from the process entirely.

Legal experts note that if Walliams chooses to challenge the decision publicly or through the courts, further information may emerge. Alternatively, the matter could remain unresolved, with reputational consequences unfolding gradually rather than through formal proceedings.

For now, the case underscores broader questions facing the entertainment and publishing sectors: how to balance safeguarding, transparency, and fairness in an era of heightened accountability.

Conclusion

The David Walliams allegations represent a significant moment for one of Britain’s most recognisable entertainers and children’s authors. With HarperCollins ending its publishing relationship, strong denials from Walliams, and public debate intensifying, the situation remains fluid.

As the story develops, attention will focus on whether further evidence or legal action emerges, and how the controversy reshapes Walliams’ career in comedy, television, and publishing. Until then, the case stands as a reminder of the complex intersection between fame, responsibility, and due process in modern British media.