David Walliams Dropped by HarperCollins After Misconduct Investigation

David Walliams has been cut loose by his long-time publisher. HarperCollins UK confirmed it will no longer publish new books by the bestselling children’s author. This follows an internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards female staff.

The decision marks a stunning fall for one of Britain’s most successful literary figures. According to The Telegraph, the publisher’s probe concluded in 2024 after serious concerns were raised.

Publisher Severs Ties Following Staff Concerns

The investigation began in 2023. A junior female employee at HarperCollins raised initial alarms about the comedian’s conduct. Multiple staff members were interviewed as part of the formal inquiry.

Employees reported being told to work in pairs during meetings with Walliams. They were also advised not to visit his home. The company has now made a final, definitive break from the author under new leadership.

Kate Elton, who became CEO in October, made the final call. HarperCollins stated the move came after careful consideration. The publisher emphasized it takes employee wellbeing extremely seriously.

A Lucrative Partnership Ends Amid Falling Sales

This termination shatters a hugely profitable publishing relationship. At his peak, David Walliams was a commercial powerhouse for HarperCollins. In 2018, his books represented a staggering 44 percent of the publisher’s entire UK children’s sales division.

His titles, like “Gangsta Granny,” have sold over 60 million copies globally. They have been translated into 55 languages. However, his dominance has sharply declined in recent years.

Industry reports noted his sales dropped more than 60 percent in the summer of 2025. This professional crisis compounds existing damage to his public reputation from past controversies.

Previous Controversies Had Already Tarnished Reputation

Walliams’ public image was already badly bruised. In 2022, leaked transcripts from “Britain’s Got Talent” revealed he made offensive remarks about contestants. He used vulgar language and made inappropriate sexual comments during filming breaks.

The fallout led him to leave his role as a judge on the show in 2023. His television career had largely stalled. This publishing scandal represents another severe blow to his professional standing.

The 54-year-old, awarded an OBE in 2017, now faces an uncertain future. His latest book, “Santa & Son,” has been published. No future titles from him will be released by his former publisher.

The decision by HarperCollins to drop David Walliams concludes a major chapter in UK publishing. It underscores a growing intolerance for misconduct in the industry. The career of Britain’s former children’s books superstar now hangs in the balance.

Info at your fingertips

What exactly was David Walliams accused of doing?

He was accused of harassing junior female staff at HarperCollins. The publisher’s investigation looked into allegations of inappropriate behaviour. Staff were reportedly given specific protocols when dealing with him.

Did anyone receive a settlement from HarperCollins?

Yes. One junior female employee who raised concerns received a five-figure payoff. She subsequently left the publishing company following the settlement.

How successful were David Walliams’ books before this?

They were massively successful. He sold over 60 million books worldwide. At one point, his sales made up 44% of HarperCollins UK’s children’s division revenue.

Has David Walliams commented on this decision?

As of this report, there has been no public statement from David Walliams regarding HarperCollins’ decision. The news was broken by an investigation from The Telegraph.

What happens to his existing books now?

His existing books will likely remain in publication and available for sale. The publisher’s decision specifically applies to future, unpublished titles by the author.

Why did his sales drop so significantly recently?

His sales fell over 60% in mid-2025. This decline is widely attributed to the damage from his previous “Britain’s Got Talent” scandal, which eroded his public appeal.