David Walliams: UK Entertainer Accused of Sexual Misconduct Loses Court Bid

Allegations reported by outlets

The Guardian reported that multiple women accuse Walliams of using his status to groom them for sex. Two accusers, now in their 30s, said they first met the actor when they were 15.

The Guardian said the allegations reportedly cover periods from his BBC sketch show work through his time on “Britain’s Got Talent,” but gave no further detail. The Guardian and ITV News said they had investigated Walliams for months, speaking with young models and fans who said he messaged them when they were between 17 and 22.

Accounts of distress and workplace conduct

HarperCollins ended its relationship with Walliams last year and dropped his back catalog after an internal investigation into what it called “inappropriate behavior” toward young female employees. The Guardian also reported that Walliams had a sexual relationship with a junior staff member at the publisher.

Walliams denies wrongdoing

In a statement published Tuesday, Walliams said he had sometimes acted thoughtlessly toward people with whom he had casual sexual relationships. He acknowledged that fame creates a power imbalance, but said he had not abused that power.

Walliams also said, “I am not a sexual predator,” and stated that he had not broken the law. He said he was devastated that some women he met 10 to 20 years ago had since expressed hurt or anger toward him.

Court refuses injunction

Walliams sought an injunction against Independent Television News and Guardian News and Media, which wanted to publish his name alongside the allegations. He lost the bid on Nov. 3 at the London High Court.

Mr. Justice Nicklin said the claim was dismissed and the injunction application refused. The Guardian identified Walliams as the person involved in the allegations Tuesday morning.