David Walliams faces accusations of predatory behaviour
David Walliams has been accused of predatory behaviour towards teenage girls, following a report by the Guardian and ITV. He denies all allegations, marking another troubling moment for comedy in the aftermath of Russell Brand’s recent rape conviction, reports BritPanorama.
The revelations focus on Walliams’ conduct over the years, raising questions about the culture within the comedy industry. In recent weeks, scrutiny has intensified on both Walliams and Brand, as footage has surfaced highlighting inappropriate jokes made by the two in previous years.
Notably, a 2007 clip features Noel Fielding joking about rape during an episode of The Big Fat Quiz of the Year, while a 2013 podcast recording shows Brand jokingly referring to rape in a flippant manner. Critics are now questioning whether comedy has become a safe space for such attitudes, perpetuated by an ingrained culture that often protects male comedians from accountability.
The issue is compounded as comedians like Vittorio Angelone face backlash for making offensive jokes. Angelone recently drew criticism for a rape joke made during a comedy roast in 2025. Fellow comedian Daniel Sloss, who was present at the event, found himself drawn into the controversy after laughing during the performance despite his reputation as an ally to women. His response included an initial apology followed by a lengthy explanation defending his actions.
This ongoing discourse reveals the persistence of what some have termed a “boys’ club” atmosphere within comedy, where misogyny is often downplayed or ignored. Female comedians have expressed fatigue in continually addressing the challenges they face compared to their male counterparts. A notable incident involved a female comedian who was advised to cancel her performance after raising concerns about sharing a stage with a known predator.
While the public face of comedy appears more diverse, the inner workings are still predominantly male-driven. Female acts continue to navigate a landscape rife with obstacles, often responding to male colleagues’ improprieties with caution for fear of jeopardising their careers. The balance of power remains skewed, as allegations of misconduct surface while industry dynamics continue to protect problematic figures.
Recent incidents underline that despite the façade of progress, the comedy industry may not have changed as much as many hoped. Women still contend with an environment where harassment and casual misogyny linger, making it difficult for them to thrive without fear of repercussion.
Amidst the current spotlight on these issues, there is a growing anxiety among female comedians about their safety and opportunities within the industry. They often find themselves navigating precarious situations that could undermine their careers while seeking to uphold integrity in their work.
As the conversation around these revelations evolves, much will depend on the response of male peers in the industry. With many remaining silent, the potential for a significant shift in comedic culture largely hangs in the balance.
