BBC Removes David Walliams Shows After Misconduct Allegations

The BBC has removed multiple programs written by or featuring David Walliams from its iPlayer service. This action follows the publication of sexual misconduct allegations against the comedian and author, which include claims involving teenage girls as young as 15.

The broadcaster confirmed it is reviewing all material featuring David Walliams on its platforms. The immediate removals include the sketch show Little Britain, episodes of The Wheel and Would I Lie To You?, and an episode of Doctor Who titled "The God Complex." Adaptations of his children's books, such as Gangsta Granny, and an episode of Who Do You Think You Are? Featuring Walliams have also been taken down.

Investigation Details

A three-year investigation by ITV News and The Guardian named David Walliams as the subject of sexual misconduct allegations. The report, based on interviews with 30 sources, includes claims of grooming and sexual assault from women who say they were teenagers at the time. It also contains witness accounts of workplace harassment.

The investigation was published after a court rejected Walliams' legal attempt to prevent its release. Since the allegations became public, Walliams has been dropped by his literary agent.

Walliams' Denials and Legal Actions

David Walliams denies all allegations. He stated he has never engaged in grooming, is not a sexual predator, and has not broken the law. In a personal letter to the publishers, he admitted to behaving thoughtlessly in past relationships but denied abusing his power.

His bid for an injunction to stop publication was dismissed by Judge Mr Justice Nicklin, who ruled it would interfere with freedom of expression. Walliams was detained under the Mental Health Act in October, with hospitals assuming responsibility for his immediate safety.

Career Context and Fallout

David Walliams has been a household name for over 20 years. He first rose to fame in a comedy duo with Matt Lucas in shows like Little Britain. He later spent a decade as a judge on Britain's Got Talent and became a hugely successful children's author, selling over 60 million books globally.

The professional fallout began before the BBC's action. In December 2025, his publisher HarperCollins UK decided not to publish any new children's books by him following an internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior toward young women at the company. By September 2026, HarperCollins confirmed it had dropped his backlist, phasing out his past titles. Alton Towers also permanently closed its World Of David Walliams attraction.

The Removed Doctor Who Episode

The removed Doctor Who episode, "The God Complex," first aired on BBC One on 17 September 2011 during Matt Smith's tenure as the Doctor. It featured Karen Gillan and Arthur Darvill as companions Amy Pond and Rory Williams. In the episode, Walliams played the role of Gibbis, a moleman-like alien, in a story about a Minotaur-like creature that feeds off faith.

A documentary providing context on his career and the allegations, titled 'Walliams: Power And Silence', airs tonight at 10:50pm on ITV1 and ITVX.