David Walliams, the best-selling children’s author and comedian, has been dropped by HarperCollins UK, the publisher confirmed. The decision means Walliams will not release any new books through the company, according to a HarperCollins spokesperson.
The publisher stated the move followed “careful consideration” under the leadership of its new CEO, Kate Elton. HarperCollins declined to specify the reasons behind the decision, saying, “We do not comment on internal matters.”
Reports suggest the termination came after an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior towards young women. Walliams’ representatives have not publicly responded to these claims.
Walliams is one of the UK’s most successful children’s authors, having sold more than 60 million copies worldwide, translated into 55 languages. HarperCollins published his first children’s title, The Boy in the Dress, in 2008 and has since released over 40 books by him.
Several of his popular works, such as Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy, have been adapted into television films. His most recent book with HarperCollins, a Christmas-themed title called Santa & Son, was published in October.
Before becoming an author, Walliams gained fame on the TV sketch show Little Britain. He also served as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent, winning National Television Awards for his role.
Walliams was appointed an OBE in 2017 for his services to charity and the arts. However, his career has not been without controversy.
Earlier this year, Walliams faced criticism for making Nazi salutes during a BBC comedy panel show recording. In 2022, he apologized for “disrespectful comments” about Britain’s Got Talent contestants, later leaving the program and settling a lawsuit related to leaked remarks.
HarperCollins UK’s leadership changed in October with Kate Elton becoming the new CEO, shortly before the publishing contract with Walliams ended. This move reflects a significant shift for both the author and the publisher amid ongoing scrutiny of his conduct.
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