The festive television schedule is set to include a David Walliams special, even as the broadcaster navigates a complex situation following serious allegations. The comedian and author, known for his wildly popular children’s books and television appearances, is now facing intense scrutiny that has led to significant professional repercussions.
Walliams has been dropped by his long-time publisher, HarperCollins, following claims of inappropriate behavior towards junior female employees. He vehemently denies these allegations, stating through a spokesperson that he intends to seek legal counsel. The accusations have triggered a wave of reassessment regarding his current and future projects.
The BBC has confirmed that, despite the controversy, the previously filmed Christmas special of “Would I Lie To You?” will still air on Boxing Day. However, the organization has stated it has no plans for future collaborations with Walliams “directly involving” him, effectively pausing any new projects.
This decision comes after a particularly troubling incident during the filming of the Christmas special itself. Walliams was filmed performing Nazi salutes, an act the BBC swiftly condemned as “completely unacceptable” and removed from the broadcast. The incident added another layer of complexity to an already fraught situation.
The fallout extends beyond the BBC. In 2022, Walliams was removed from his judging role on “Britain’s Got Talent” after leaked audio revealed offensive remarks made about female contestants. Transcripts showed disparaging and disrespectful comments, prompting a public apology from Walliams and a subsequent legal settlement with the production company.
The leaked transcripts detailed shockingly crude language used to describe auditioning performers, revealing a pattern of behavior that raised serious concerns. Walliams claimed the comments were made in private and never intended for public consumption, but the damage was already done.
The investigation by HarperCollins reportedly led to a five-figure payout for an employee who raised concerns about Walliams’ conduct, and that employee subsequently left the company. Walliams’ representatives maintain he was never informed of these allegations or given an opportunity to respond.
Walliams rose to prominence as a children’s author in 2008, publishing over 40 bestselling books, including beloved titles like “Gangsta Granny.” His success has translated to screen adaptations, further solidifying his position in the entertainment industry.
However, his earlier work is also under renewed examination. His sketch comedy series with Matt Lucas, “Little Britain,” has faced criticism for its portrayal of certain characters and the use of blackface. Both Walliams and Lucas issued an apology in 2020, acknowledging the wrongfulness of their past actions.
In a recent interview, Walliams described “cancel culture” as “exhausting,” arguing that a constant fear of causing offense could stifle creativity. He suggested that humor often exists on the edge and that a sense of perspective is crucial. The current situation, however, presents a stark challenge to that viewpoint.
