Comedian and children's author David Walliams has issued a firm denial of allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards women, following the news that his publisher, HarperCollins, has severed ties with him. A spokesperson for Walliams stated that the star "strongly denies" the claims and was not informed about, nor party to, any investigation conducted by the publishing giant prior to their decision.
Publisher Severs Ties Amid Allegations
The controversy emerged on 19 December 2025, when it was reported that HarperCollins had dropped Walliams from its roster of authors. The decision is understood to be linked to allegations of inappropriate conduct made by several women. However, the specific details of these allegations have not been made public at this time.
In a statement addressing the situation, a representative for David Walliams said: "David strongly denies any allegations of inappropriate behaviour and was not informed about or party to any investigation by HarperCollins." This suggests a significant breakdown in communication between the author and the publisher, raising questions about the procedural fairness of the decision from Walliams's perspective.
A Lucrative Partnership Abruptly Ended
The split marks a dramatic end to a highly successful and lucrative partnership. David Walliams is one of the UK's best-selling children's authors, with his books, including the hugely popular "Gangsta Granny" and "The Boy in the Dress," having sold millions of copies worldwide. His deal with HarperCollins was reportedly worth millions of pounds.
The publisher's move follows a growing trend in the entertainment and publishing industries, where companies are increasingly taking swift action in response to allegations of misconduct. However, Walliams's claim of being kept in the dark about an investigation adds a complex layer to this particular case, potentially setting the stage for a legal dispute.
What Happens Next for Walliams?
The immediate future of Walliams's literary career is now uncertain. With his primary publisher having withdrawn its support, the fate of any upcoming book projects or existing stock remains unclear. The allegations, coupled with the very public severance, are likely to have a significant impact on his brand, which has been built on a family-friendly image through his work on "Britain's Got Talent" and his bestselling books.
As of now, no formal legal action has been announced by either Walliams or the alleged complainants. The situation continues to develop, and further statements from either HarperCollins or the women involved are anticipated. The case underscores the ongoing challenges faced by public figures and the corporations they work with when navigating serious personal allegations in the public domain.
