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After an internal investigation, HarperCollins UK has ceased its publishing relationship with bestselling author David Walliams, following reports of inappropriate behavior towards junior female employees. The decision, announced Friday, underscores a growing reckoning within the publishing industry regarding workplace conduct and employee well-being.
HarperCollins UK, a division of Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp, stated that the decision to sever ties with Walliams came “after careful consideration, and under the leadership of its new CEO.” The publisher confirmed it would not be pursuing any new titles by the author, who has sold over 60 million books worldwide, translated into 55 languages.
Investigation Follows Reports in The Daily Telegraph
The move follows a report in The Daily Telegraph detailing allegations of harassment. According to sources cited by the newspaper, following the publisher’s investigation, some junior staff members were deliberately kept away from Walliams. The report further alleges that one woman who raised concerns about the 54-year-old author received a five-figure settlement from HarperCollins and subsequently left the company.
A spokesperson for HarperCollins emphasized the company’s commitment to a safe work environment. “We take employee well-being extremely seriously and have a process in place to report and investigate concerns,” the spokesperson stated, adding that the publisher would not comment on specific internal matters to protect individual privacy.
Walliams Denies Allegations, Pursues Legal Action
Walliams, known for his popular children’s books like “The Boy in the Dress,” “Billionaire Boy,” and “Gangsta Granny,” vehemently denies the accusations. A spokesperson for the author told the BBC that Walliams “strongly denies that he has behaved inappropriately” and that HarperCollins had not informed him of any investigation or provided an opportunity to respond to the allegations.
“David is taking legal advice,” the spokesperson added, as reported by the BBC. His representatives have yet to respond to a request for comment from Reuters.
Previous Conduct Concerns
This is not the first instance of scrutiny regarding Walliams’ public conduct. In 2022, he stepped down as a judge on the television talent show “Britain’s Got Talent” after leaked audio revealed “disrespectful comments” made during filming breaks. He subsequently issued an apology for his remarks.
Leadership Change at HarperCollins UK
The decision to drop Walliams comes shortly after Kate Elton was appointed CEO of HarperCollins UK in October, following the departure of Charlie Redmayne. This leadership transition may have contributed to a renewed focus on workplace culture and accountability within the organization.
The situation remains fluid as Walliams prepares to pursue legal action, and further details are likely to emerge as the case develops.
