The moment David Walliams’ career started to unravel: Shamed comic was caught making sexually explicit remarks about BGT contestants on mic before stepping down as judge

David Walliams’ once-successful television career has come under renewed scrutiny following the resurfacing of the controversy that brought his decade-long run on Britain’s Got Talent to an end.

The comedian, who became one of Britain’s most recognisable entertainment personalities through Little Britain and his work as a children’s author, faced widespread criticism in November 2022 after a leaked transcript revealed offensive and sexually explicit remarks he had made about contestants during filming.

The comments were reportedly captured by microphones at the judges’ desk during auditions at London’s Palladium in January 2020.

According to the leaked transcript published by The Guardian, Walliams made derogatory comments about an older male contestant after his unsuccessful audition. He also made sexually explicit remarks about a female participant after she had left the stage.

The revelations sparked considerable backlash, raising questions about the treatment and dignity of people who auditioned for the popular ITV talent competition.

Walliams subsequently issued an apology, expressing regret to the people targeted by his remarks. He maintained that the conversations were private and had not been intended for broadcast.

However, the controversy placed his position on the judging panel under intense scrutiny.

In November 2022, Walliams announced his departure from the programme after serving as a judge since 2012. Bruno Tonioli was subsequently announced as his replacement.

The fallout did not end there. Walliams later pursued legal action against Fremantle, the production company behind the show, over the publication of his private conversations.

In November 2023, the dispute was settled, with Fremantle apologising for the publication of his private conversations and expressing regret over the distress caused.

Now, in November 2026, Walliams is facing another wave of scrutiny following a major investigation by The Guardian and ITV News into allegations concerning his interactions with women, including claims involving women who were teenagers at the time.

Walliams has denied wrongdoing and rejected allegations of serious criminal conduct.

The latest developments have renewed attention on the comedian’s public image and the controversies surrounding his career.

For a television personality who spent years entertaining audiences and building a successful career, the unfolding situation represents a significant moment of public scrutiny.