HarperCollins to Stop Printing David Walliams Books Following Harassment Allegations

Publisher HarperCollins will cease printing all books by children's author David Walliams, following allegations of inappropriate behavior and harassment. This decision expands on an announcement made last December to no longer publish new titles by the author, who has sold over 60 million books worldwide.

HarperCollins confirmed on September 18, 2026, that the publisher will "no longer be publishing David Walliams’s backlist." The company also plans to phase out existing stock from bookstores. This move comes nine months after the initial decision to drop Walliams was made.

The publisher's spokesperson stated in December that HarperCollins UK "has decided not to publish any new titles by David Walliams." The statement added that "HarperCollins takes employee wellbeing extremely seriously and has processes in place for reporting and investigating concerns." At the time, a spokesperson for Walliams denied he had been informed of any allegations and stated that he "strongly denies that he has behaved inappropriately and is taking legal advice."

Walliams, known for his role in the BBC comedy Little Britain, gained significant recognition as a children's author. His works include titles such as "The Boy In The Dress," "Fing," and "Gangsta Granny." The latter was adapted into a BBC television special.

This decision by HarperCollins follows a previous controversy where Walliams left his role as a judge on Britain's Got Talent in 2022. He apologized for making "disrespectful comments" about auditioning contestants during filming breaks in 2020. Fremantle, the show's producer, later reached an "amicable resolution" with Walliams after remarks he made were leaked.

Walliams was awarded an OBE in 2017 for his contributions to the arts and charity, notably for raising £2 million for Sport Relief by swimming 140 miles down the River Thames.