A cloud of controversy continues to surround comedian David Walliams, even as the BBC maintains its plan to air a repeat of the 2024Would I Lie To YouChristmas special on Boxing Day.
The decision comes after Walliams was dropped by his publisher, HarperCollins, following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior towards junior female employees. The author, known for his wildly popular children’s books, vehemently denies the accusations and intends to seek legal counsel.
HarperCollins confirmed the decision, stating they take employee wellbeing “extremely seriously” and have established procedures for addressing concerns. Reports suggest a significant financial settlement was made to one employee who voiced concerns, who subsequently left the company.
This isn’t the first time Walliams has faced public scrutiny. Last year, footage surfaced of him performing Nazi salutes during the filming of the same Christmas special. The BBC swiftly apologized and edited the offensive gestures out of the broadcast.
Despite the recent allegations and past incidents, the BBC has stated it will proceed with the Boxing Day repeat at 7pm on BBC One. However, the broadcaster confirmed there are no future projects currently planned with Walliams.
Prior to the publishing controversy, Walliams was removed from his judging role onBritain’s Got Talentafter leaked audio revealed disparaging and offensive remarks about female contestants. He later issued a public apology for the “disrespectful comments.”
The leaked recordings included deeply offensive language, and Walliams subsequently pursued legal action against the production company, Fremantle, alleging misuse of private information. The case was eventually settled.
Further complicating matters, Walliams’ earlier sketch comedy series,Little Britain, co-created with Matt Lucas, has drawn criticism for characters deemed “explicitly racist” and the use of blackface.
In a recent interview, Walliams described the current climate of “cancel culture” as “exhausting,” arguing that humor often exists on the edge and that constant self-censorship would stifle creativity. He maintains that audiences haven’t lost their sense of humor.
The repeated controversies raise questions about the boundaries of comedy and the consequences for public figures whose actions and words fall under intense public examination.
