Publisher HarperCollins has announced it will cease printing all books by children’s author and television personality David Walliams, effectively removing his extensive backlist from circulation. This decision follows earlier actions by the publisher to drop new titles by the author and comes after allegations of inappropriate behavior towards young women.
HarperCollins Ends Publication of David Walliams’s Backlist
HarperCollins, a major publishing house, confirmed that it will no longer print David Walliams’s existing catalogue of books. This move extends beyond the decision made in December to halt the publication of any new works by the author. The publisher plans to phase out existing stock from bookstores, marking a significant withdrawal of Walliams’s literary output from the market.
The controversy stems from allegations that Walliams engaged in harassing behavior towards employees at the firm. An investigation was reportedly initiated after a complaint was lodged. Walliams has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Walliams, whose real name is David Edward Williams, achieved considerable success as a children’s author, with his books selling over 60 million copies worldwide and generating an estimated £100 million in sales. His popular titles include “The Boy In The Dress,” “Fing,” and “Gangsta Granny.” Several of his works have been adapted for television, including “Gangsta Granny,” which was made into a BBC special.
Background of Allegations and Author’s Response
The decision by HarperCollins to cease printing Walliams’s backlist comes nine months after the initial announcement in December that new titles would not be published. At that time, a spokesperson for HarperCollins stated that the decision was made after careful consideration and under the leadership of its new CEO. The publisher emphasized its commitment to employee wellbeing and its established processes for reporting and investigating concerns, while respecting the privacy of individuals involved.
In response to the December decision, a spokesperson for David Walliams stated that he had not been informed of any allegations by HarperCollins and was not part of any investigation or given an opportunity to respond to questions. The spokesperson reiterated Walliams’s strong denial of any inappropriate behavior and indicated he was seeking legal advice.
Walliams’s Career and Previous Controversies
David Walliams rose to prominence as a comedian, particularly for his role in the BBC sketch show “Little Britain.” He later transitioned into a highly successful career as a children’s author and a television personality, notably serving as a judge on ITV’s “Britain’s Got Talent” from 2012 to 2022.
Walliams’s tenure on “Britain’s Got Talent” concluded in 2022. He issued an apology for making “disrespectful comments” about contestants during filming breaks in 2020. Following the leak of these remarks, the show’s producer, Fremantle, issued an apology and reached an “amicable resolution” with Walliams. Prior to this, Walliams had been suing Fremantle for misuse of private information and breaches of UK data protection laws related to the leaked comments.
Beyond his entertainment career, Walliams has also been recognized for his charitable work. He was awarded an OBE in 2017 for his contributions to the arts and charity, including raising approximately £2 million for Sport Relief through a 140-mile sponsored swim down the River Thames.
Publisher’s Stance and Future Implications
The confirmation from HarperCollins that they will no longer publish David Walliams’s backlist signifies a complete cessation of their relationship with the author regarding his book sales. While the publisher has not commented further on the specifics of the allegations, their actions indicate a firm stance following the investigation into the claims of harassment.
The withdrawal of Walliams’s books from print raises questions about the future availability of his popular works and the impact on his legacy as a children’s author. The publisher’s decision underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by public figures regarding workplace conduct and the potential consequences for their professional careers.
Conclusion
HarperCollins’s decision to pull all of David Walliams’s books from print, including his extensive backlist, marks a significant development following allegations of harassment. While Walliams has denied the claims, the publisher’s move indicates a definitive end to their publishing relationship. This situation highlights the serious repercussions that allegations of misconduct can have on an individual’s career and public standing.
