David Walliams strongly denies inappropriate behaviour claims

The 54-year-old author who is also known for appearing in comedy show such as Come Fly With Me alongside Matt Lucas, was dropped by HarperCollins who said “after careful consideration” they would not be publishing any new titles from the award-winning children’s writer.

A spokesperson for David said in a statement to the Press Association: “David has never been informed of any allegations raised against him by HarperCollins.

“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”.

The decision to drop him was made following an investigation into allegations he had “harassed” young women, The Telegraph first reported.

In a statement, HarperCollins said: “After careful consideration, and under the leadership of its new CEO, HarperCollins UK has decided not to publish any new titles by David Walliams. The author is aware of this decision.”

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

David has written books including The Boy In The Dress, Fing, and Gangsta Granny, the latter of which was turned into a one-hour BBC special in 2013, followed by a sequel starring Sheridan Smith in 2022.

Big news today – the HarperCollins Author Academy is back – new branding, new website, and opening for applications on 8 January! Visit https://t.co/LJiBRlicSx for full details! https://t.co/nRJylwS4pW

— HarperCollinsUK (@HarperCollinsUK) December 9, 2025

Why did BGT get rid of David Walliams?

Three years ago, the TV star was also a judge on Britain’s Got Talent (BGT).

But he left the role in 2022 after he apologised for making “disrespectful comments” about auditioning contestants during filming breaks at the London Palladium in January 2020.

In 2023, BGT producer Fremantle apologised and reached an “amicable resolution” with David after the remarks he made while on the ITV show were leaked.

David appeared on the popular talent show between 2012 and 2022, and was suing the company for misuse of private information and for breaching UK General Data Protection Regulation (UKGDPR) and the Data Protection Act 2018.

The comedian, actor and presenter was made an OBE in 2017 for services to the arts and charity, having raised £2 million for Sport Relief by completing a 140-mile swim down the River Thames.