David Walliams, the best-selling children’s author and comedian, has refuted allegations of inappropriate conduct following HarperCollins UK’s decision to discontinue publishing his books.
A spokesperson for HarperCollins stated that the company had chosen not to release any new titles by Walliams “after careful consideration, and under the leadership of its new CEO.”
According to The Telegraph, the decision follows an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior towards young women. HarperCollins has not confirmed the specific reasons for its decision.
A representative for Walliams asserted that he had “never been informed of any allegations raised against him” by his publisher.
“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 spokesperson added.
The publisher affirmed that it 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,” the company stated.
Walliams is recognized as one of the UK’s most successful children’s authors, with over 60 million copies sold globally in 55 languages.
HarperCollins published his debut children’s book, The Boy in the Dress, in 2008.
Several of his works, including Gangsta Granny and Billionaire Boy, have been adapted into television films.
He has authored more than 40 books, including a Christmas-themed title, Santa & Son, which HarperCollins published in October.
Walliams initially gained prominence through the TV sketch series Little Britain and has also received National Television Awards for his role as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent.
He was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2017 for his contributions to charity and the arts.
However, he has faced controversies, including criticism for allegedly making two Nazi salutes during a recording of the BBC comedy panel show Would I Lie To You? earlier this year.
In 2022, he issued an apology and acknowledged making “disrespectful comments” about two Britain’s Got Talent contestants during a filming break.
He departed from the program that year and initiated legal action against the production company over the leak of the remarks, ultimately reaching a settlement in 2023.
Kate Elton was appointed the new chief executive of HarperCollins UK in October.
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