The Metropolitan Police has opened a formal investigation into entertainer David Walliams following allegations of serious sexual misconduct. The force confirmed on Friday that detectives are examining "a number of allegations of non-recent serious sexual offences involving a man now in his 50s."
According to BBC News, the investigation was triggered after ITV News and the Guardian published detailed reports documenting accusations of sexual misconduct from multiple women. The Met clarified that while the allegations under investigation are separate from those covered in the media reports, detectives are "proactively reviewing that reporting to establish whether there is any evidence of offences."
When the initial allegations surfaced, Walliams denied the claims, stating he was "not a sexual predator" and had not "broken the law." His legal team had previously attempted to block publication of the allegations through a High Court injunction, but the judge dismissed that claim on 3 November, and Walliams did not appeal by the 9 November deadline, allowing the outlets to proceed with identifying him.
The investigation follows a lengthy journalistic inquiry. According to AP News, the media outlets' legal representatives told the court their investigation involved speaking to more than 100 people before publication.
The specific allegations reported by ITV News and the Guardian include claims spanning several years. CNN reported that one account involves contact with a girl through MySpace when she was 15, with allegations of a sexual relationship developing by age 17. Walliams's legal representatives have denied grooming or sexual contact in that particular account.
The allegations have had immediate professional consequences for Walliams. Following publication of the reports, his literary agent Independent Talent Group terminated their representation, and publisher HarperCollins announced it was dropping him as an author.
This investigation builds on earlier warnings within the entertainment industry. Author Chloe Combi previously disclosed that she was warned in 2015 by a senior publishing figure not to book Walliams for school appearances due to concerns about his behaviour toward young female staff.
How are authorities supporting potential victims?
The Metropolitan Police has emphasised its commitment to supporting those who come forward. Those who have made allegations are being assisted by specialist officers trained in handling sensitive cases of this nature.
Detective Superintendent Mike Cagney issued a public appeal, stating:
"We would encourage anyone who has been the victim of a sexual offence to come forward and speak to us, no matter when it happened. We know reporting allegations of this nature can be daunting, but specialist officers are on hand to provide support, answer questions and guide you through the process."
What are the wider implications?
The allegations and subsequent police investigation have prompted broader scrutiny of safeguarding practices across the entertainment industry. Government officials have signalled plans for enhanced safeguarding measures, with Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy warning that mandatory standards may be imposed unless the industry makes rapid improvements to its protection systems.
Key Facts
- The Metropolitan Police is investigating allegations of non-recent serious sexual offences against a man in his 50s
- The investigation was prompted by reports from ITV News and the Guardian detailing accusations from multiple women
- Walliams's literary agent and publisher have both terminated their professional relationships with him following publication of the allegations
- Specialist police officers are providing support to those who have come forward with allegations
- The case has triggered government consideration of mandatory safeguarding standards for the entertainment industry
