Retailers and schools drop David Walliams books after grooming accusations, while the author denies the claims.
After a wave of grooming allegations involving the former television judge, a cascade of withdrawals has hit the market for children’s author David Walliams. The accusations, which center on attempts to manipulate teenage girls as young as 15, have prompted publishers, booksellers and public institutions to remove his titles from shelves and library catalogues.
Retail chains and online platforms react
Leading high-street retailers such as Waterstones confirmed they are in talks with HarperCollins to return the few remaining copies of Walliams’ books that still sit in select stores. A Waterstones spokesperson explained that the publisher halted supply of all Walliams titles, and the retailer will retrieve the stock that remains in its inventory.
Similar statements came from the company’s sibling chains, Blackwell’s and the historic London bookseller Foyles.
Online giant Amazon revealed ongoing discussions with HarperCollins following the publisher’s decision in September to cease publishing the author’s backlist. The retailer has already removed digital editions from its catalogue, while printed copies will stay available only until current stock is exhausted.
Former WHSmith outlet TGJones declared that it no longer sells any Walliams books, either in physical shops or via its website.
Discount retailer The Works, operating more than 500 stores nationwide, issued a statement that all titles by Walliams have been taken off shelves after the media reports. The chain confirmed that each outlet received instructions to clear the titles immediately.
Educational institutions and local councils take action
Several London boroughs have moved to protect students by removing the author’s books from public libraries. Camden Council issued a declaration emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding women and girls, noting that the removal of the titles aligns with that policy. The council’s press release directly linked the decision to the recent accusations.
The charitable organisation Oasis Charitable Trust, which runs 59 schools across England, sent guidance to headteachers urging a temporary withdrawal of Walliams titles. Founder Steve Chalke argued that keeping the books could traumatise pupils who recognise the author’s name or image. The trust’s network includes schools in Lambeth, Croydon and Enfield.
Academy chain GLF Schools, overseeing 43 schools mainly in the London commuter belt, announced a similar removal from its school libraries. Both trusts cited the need to protect children while investigations continue.
Background of the controversy
HarperCollins terminated its relationship with Walliams in December 2025 after an internal probe uncovered allegations of inappropriate behaviour toward junior female staff. The publisher ceased printing and distributing his works, effectively ending the author’s publishing contract. Walliams publicly denied the accusations, stating he does not recall any inappropriate messages and that any interaction with the complainant was a “special friendship.”
The allegations first emerged when a former model, Lilly Creightmore, waived anonymity and told investigators she was contacted by Walliams at age 18, after appearing on a reality TV show at 16. She alleged that he sent a handwritten note expressing admiration and later offered her accommodation, which she claims turned into attempts to share a bed and coerce sexual activity. The complainant said Walliams reacted angrily when she refused his advances and that the contact persisted for several years.
Despite the seriousness of the claims, Walliams maintains that his actions were never intended to groom or manipulate. He described the relationship as a “friendship” and expressed devastation at the accusations. No criminal charges have been filed, but the public response has been swift, with sales figures still reflecting the author’s popularity—nearly 108,000 copies sold in 2026 before the removals began.
Impact on the market and public perception
The withdrawal of Walliams’ books illustrates how quickly a literary brand can be affected by personal misconduct allegations. Retailers have acted to distance themselves from potential backlash, while schools and libraries prioritize student welfare over commercial considerations. The episode also highlights the role of publishers in monitoring author conduct; HarperCollins’ decision to end its partnership set a precedent for other houses facing similar dilemmas.
For parents and educators, the situation raises questions about vetting authors and the balance between an author’s work and their personal behaviour. As the investigation proceeds, the industry will likely watch closely to see whether Walliams can rebuild his reputation or remain a cautionary example of how allegations can reshape a career overnight.
