Comic had tried to block stories and denies grooming claims

David Walliams has been named as the celebrity who tried to block the publication of sexual misconduct allegations against him.

The Little Britain star's name had been widely circulated on social media as the personality who used an injunction to stop ITV and The Guardian from publishing allegations against him.

The comedian and former Britain’s Got Talent judge is alleged to have groomed fans he met when they were as young as 15 and harassed women in the workplace over a number of years. 

He denies the allegations and took legal action, arguing his mental health issues meant he would be at risk of suicide if the claims were made public.  

Mr Justice Nicklin dismissed his claim at the High Court and Walliams failed to lodge an appeal by yesterday's deadline, meaning that the two news outlets were free to name him.

Now The Guardian has published its full account, quoting multiple women who allege Walliams abused his power and position as a celebrity to prey on them for sexual purposes when they were teenagers or young women. Most say they were over 18 when they had interactions with Walliams, but not all.

In September, HarperCollins announced it would no longer publish Walliams’ extensive back catalogue, having dropped its bestselling author last year, and last week Alton Towers confirmed it had shuttered its World of David Walliams attraction.

Published: 10 Nov 2026