HarperCollins Drops David Walliams; Author Denies Allegations

LONDON — HarperCollins UK has decided not to publish any new titles by David Walliams, the British children's author and former judge on Britain's Got Talent. The decision, announced under the leadership of the publisher's new chief executive, follows reported concerns about workplace behavior that prompted questions about the author’s ongoing relationship with the company. Walliams and his representatives have said little beyond statements indicating a denial of any wrongdoing.

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." A Walliams spokesperson responded by saying he has "never been informed of any allegations raised against him by HarperCollins" and that Walliams "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 publisher added that it would not comment on internal matters "to respect the privacy of individuals" and noted that it takes employee wellbeing seriously and has processes in place for reporting and investigating concerns.

In parallel to the publishing development, Walliams’s public career has been marked by a long run as a bestselling author and a high-profile television presence. He has published more than 40 children's books and sold more than 60 million copies worldwide, according to his official site. Several titles, including Gangsta Granny, have been adapted into BBC comedy dramas and stage productions. Walliams stepped down as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent in 2022, after apologizing for making disrespectful comments about auditioning contestants. The 2022 departure remains a notable moment in his public career as publishers navigate the fallout from news about the author.

Walliams continues to be a prominent figure in the children’s literary world, and the HarperCollins decision highlights how publishing houses are approaching allegations and internal concerns amid broader conversations about workplace culture. Industry observers note that a publisher’s stance on future titles can have wide-reaching implications for an author’s legacy, even as a writer’s catalog remains in print and accessible to readers around the world. The exact terms of any ongoing or potential investigations involving Walliams were not disclosed by HarperCollins, and there has been no independent confirmation of allegations. As the situation evolves, publishers and fans alike will be watching how transitions in leadership and policy affect relationships with high-profile authors in the culture and entertainment landscape.