David Walliams has made his first public outing since a dramatic fall from grace last month, appearing at a children's event in London looking visibly subdued. The 54-year-old children's author and television personality was dropped by his long-time publisher HarperCollins in November following allegations he harassed employees.
A Tentative Step Back into the Spotlight
Arriving at the Circle & Star Theatre in Hampstead on Saturday, Walliams cut a starkly different figure from his usual eccentric television persona. Dressed in jeans and a dark bomber jacket, he seemed rattled as he struggled to find the stage door. When approached by the Daily Mail, he offered only a quiet "hello" and declined to comment on his future in television or his state of mind after what friends describe as "a bruising few weeks."
The event itself was billed as "a joyful storytelling adventure for kids and families," promising readings and the author's trademark mischief. However, the turnout was notably muted, with the shadow of recent events seemingly looming large. One attendee voiced the dilemma facing many fans, questioning whether it was possible to separate the artist from the allegations surrounding him.
The Mounting Allegations and Industry Fallout
The author's troubles began in earnest last month when HarperCollins severed ties with him. Reports emerged that former employees at the publishing giant had raised concerns about his behaviour, with some allegedly advised to work in pairs and not to visit his home. One woman who raised concerns reportedly received a five-figure settlement and has since left the company.
The repercussions have extended beyond publishing. In December, The Children's Trust confirmed it had dropped Walliams as an ambassador earlier in 2025. Meanwhile, the BBC has stated it has "no future projects" with him, despite airing his appearance in a Christmas special of *Would I Lie To You?*.
This marks a stunning reversal for one of Britain's most successful children's authors, whose books have sold more than 60 million copies in 55 languages. HarperCollins published his debut, *The Boy in the Dress*, in 2008, and hits like *Gangsta Granny* have been adapted for television.
A Pattern of Controversy and a Costly Exit
Sources within showbusiness told the Daily Mail that Walliams is "utterly despised" in some quarters, with his behaviour described as "one of the biggest open secrets in the industry." A former *Britain's Got Talent* staff member labelled him "hideously rude."
This is not Walliams' first major controversy. He left BGT in November 2022 after audio leaks captured him making vile, misogynistic remarks about contestants off-camera. Although he apologised, he subsequently sued the production company, Fremantle, for misuse of private information. The company apologised and Walliams is believed to have received a settlement of around £5 million.
His subdued appearance in Hampstead suggests the latest scandal, involving direct allegations from within his professional circle, may carry a heavier and more lasting cost to his reputation and career.
