HarperCollins has confirmed that it will no longer sell or reprint any of David Walliams’s children’s titles, effectively removing his entire back catalogue from its publishing roster.
The decision, first reported by The Bookseller, means that existing bookshop stock of Mr Walliams’s works will be gradually wound down rather than replenished.
Digital formats, including e-books and audiobooks currently available online, are also believed to be withdrawn in due course.
The move comes nine months after the publisher’s announcement in December 2025, when it stated it would cease publishing new works by the comedian-turned-author.
David Walliams has penned over a dozen books
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GETTYAt that time, HarperCollins said the decision had been taken “after careful consideration, and under the leadership of its new CEO”, though it continued to make his existing catalogue available.
The move came as Mr Walliams was facing allegations of “inappropriate behaviour”, allegations he’s strenuously denied.
HarperCollins did not publicly confirm the reason behind its decision to sever ties with Mr Walliams.
A spokesperson for the publisher said at the time: “HarperCollins takes employee wellbeing extremely seriously and has processes in place for reporting and investigating concerns.
David Walliams shot to household fame on Little Britain alongside Matt Lucas
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PA“To respect the privacy of individuals, we do not comment on internal matters.”
Mr Walliams has vigorously rejected all claims made against him.
A spokesperson acting on his behalf stated at the time: “David has never been informed of any allegations raised against him by HarperCollins.
“He was not party to any investigation or given any opportunity to answer questions.
David Walliams had worked with the publisher since 2008 | GETTY
“David strongly denies that he has behaved inappropriately and is taking legal advice.”
Shortly after the publisher’s initial decision last year, the Waterstones Children’s Book Festival also removed him from its scheduled line-up.
GB News has contacted Mr Walliams for comment following the confirmation that his backlist is being retired.
Mr Walliams began his children’s writing career in 2008 with The Boy in the Dress, going on to publish 23 titles with HarperCollins.
David Walliams has denied all the allegations against him
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PAHis books have collectively sold more than 60 million copies worldwide.
Six of his stories were adapted for television, and in 2018 alone he accounted for 44 per cent of HarperCollins’s UK children’s book sales. The commercial value of the partnership was estimated at £100 million by 2019.
Beyond publishing, the Little Britain star served as a judge on Britain’s Got Talent for a decade from 2012.
He departed the programme after a leaked transcript published by The Guardian revealed obscene remarks he had made about contestants during a 2020 audition.
He apologised and subsequently settled a legal claim against FremantleMedia in November 2023.
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