Comedian and children’s author David Walliams has been identified as the celebrity at the center of a UK court battle over anonymity and sexual misconduct allegations. Page Six reports that Walliams was named after he failed to secure an injunction blocking publication of his identity. The case drew added attention because his lawyers told the court he had made two suicide attempts and was at risk again if named. After no appeal was filed, his identity became public alongside detailed claims from multiple women.
David Walliams Named After Injunction Bid Fails
The allegations against Walliams include claims from women who said he used his fame to groom them for sex, with two saying they were 15 when they first met him. Those women, now in their 30s, said the encounters left a lasting impact. One alleged that after meeting him at a fan event, he called her a “very attractive lady” and stayed in contact for years before they later had sex. Another claimed he initiated sexual contact within weeks, then suggested they wait until she turned 16 while staying in touch.
Guardian Report Details Claims Across Decades
According to Page Six, the reporting draws on accounts from 30 sources and describes allegations stretching from Walliams’ BBC sketch show years to his time on “Britain’s Got Talent.” The investigation also included claims from young models and fans who said he contacted them on social media when they were between 17 and 22. Several described those interactions as distressing years later. Others alleged they experienced or witnessed harassment of young women in workplace settings tied to his career and public profile.
Walliams Denies Wrongdoing in Public Statement
Walliams denied the allegations in a statement published Tuesday. “Looking back, I realize that at times I behaved thoughtlessly towards other people I had casual sexual relationships with,” Walliams said according to Page Six. He added, “I am not a sexual predator. I have not broken the law, but I am devastated that some of the women I met 10 to 20 years ago have now expressed hurt or anger towards me.” He also said that while fame can create a power imbalance, he rejected claims that he abused that power.
Court Heard Claims About Mental Health Crisis
The High Court previously granted temporary anonymity while Walliams considered an appeal, but that protection ended after the judge refused a lasting injunction. During the proceedings, his lawyer said he was too unwell to decide whether to challenge the ruling. She told the court, “The claimant has attempted suicide twice as a result of these matters, been hospitalized for months, been the subject of involuntary detention and been examined by multiple – now more than 10 – doctors,” Sara Mansoori KC told Page Six. The judge ultimately dismissed the claim, clearing the way for publication.
