HarperCollins Drops David Walliams Amid Inappropriate Behaviour Allegations

By John Pranay (Editor)

British children's author David Walliams has been dropped by his publisher, HarperCollins, amid allegations of inappropriate behavior. The decision was made by HarperCollins UK's new CEO, with Walliams, 54, denying any wrongdoing. The author, known for his bestselling children's books and stint as a judge on "Britain's Got Talent," claims he was not informed of any allegations and has not been given the opportunity to respond. Walliams has taken legal advice and maintains his innocence.

The controversy surrounding David Walliams began with a statement from HarperCollins on Friday, announcing they would no longer publish new titles by the author. The decision was made under the leadership of the new CEO, but the company declined to comment on internal matters, citing respect for individual privacy. Walliams' spokesperson responded, stating the author had not been informed of any allegations and had not been given the chance to answer questions. This move comes after Walliams left his role as a judge on "Britain's Got Talent" in 2022, following an apology for making "disrespectful comments" about auditioning contestants.

• 2022: David Walliams leaves his role as judge on "Britain's Got Talent" after apologizing for making "disrespectful comments" about auditioning contestants.

• December 20, 2025: HarperCollins drops David Walliams as an author, citing allegations of inappropriate behavior.

• December 20, 2025: David Walliams denies any wrongdoing, claiming he was not informed of the allegations and has not been given the opportunity to respond.

David Walliams has been a prominent figure in British children's literature, with numerous bestselling books and a stint as a judge on the popular TV show "Britain's Got Talent." However, this is not the first time Walliams has faced controversy. His departure from "Britain's Got Talent" in 2022 followed an apology for making "disrespectful comments" about contestants. This latest development raises questions about Walliams' behavior and the actions of his publisher.

The dropping of David Walliams by HarperCollins highlights the growing scrutiny of public figures and the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment. As a prominent author and TV personality, Walliams' actions have a significant impact on his audience, particularly children. The decision by HarperCollins to drop Walliams sends a message about the consequences of alleged misconduct and the need for accountability in the entertainment industry.

The controversy surrounding David Walliams raises concerns about the potential consequences of alleged misconduct on an individual's career and reputation. It also highlights the importance of maintaining a safe and respectful environment, particularly in industries that cater to children. Regulatory risks include the potential for further allegations and the impact on Walliams' future career prospects. Financial risks include the potential loss of revenue for HarperCollins and the impact on Walliams' personal finances.

Q: What led to HarperCollins dropping David Walliams as an author?

A: Allegations of inappropriate behavior, which Walliams denies.

Q: What is David Walliams' response to the allegations?

A: He claims he was not informed of the allegations and has not been given the opportunity to respond.

Q: What does this mean for David Walliams' future career prospects?

A: The decision by HarperCollins to drop Walliams sends a message about the consequences of alleged misconduct and the need for accountability in the entertainment industry.

Assessment: Neutral.

1. Children's author David Walliams denies inappropriate behaviour after publisher drops him — https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/childrens-author-david-walliams-denies-inappropriate-behaviour-after-publisher-drops-him/article70419868.ece

Methodology: This analysis combines real-time data aggregation from manually selected global sources with advanced AI synthesis, engineered to provide neutral and data-driven insights.