Overview
- HarperCollins confirmed this week that it will no longer publish or replenish David Walliams’s backlist and will phase out remaining physical, ebook and audio stock.
- The decision follows the publisher’s December 2025 move to stop releasing new Walliams titles after reports of an internal inquiry into alleged inappropriate behaviour toward junior staff.
- Industry data show HarperCollins sold about 141,000 UK copies worth roughly £926,000 since the December announcement, highlighting ongoing commercial demand despite the cut with the publisher.
- Walliams and his representatives deny he was informed of any allegations, say he was not part of any investigation, and state he is taking legal advice; Deadline also reports talent agency YMU is no longer actively representing him.
- The change creates practical uncertainty over rights, inventory and future availability of the titles and could prompt publishers to review how they balance reputational risk, employee wellbeing and contractual rights.