British comedian and children’s author David Walliams is facing allegations of sexual misconduct involving teenage girls and young women, the same week fellow British comedian Russell Brand was sentenced to over 10 years in prison for multiple sexual offenses.
A joint investigation by ITV News and The Guardian, published Tuesday, included accounts from multiple women who accused Walliams, 55, of using his celebrity status to pursue them when they were teenagers. One woman alleged he sexually assaulted her at his London home when she was 15.
Walliams has denied wrongdoing.
“I am not a sexual predator,” he wrote in a letter to the news organizations. “I have not broken the law, but I am devastated that some of the women I met 10 to 20 years ago have now expressed hurt or anger towards me.”
The allegations have already affected several of his projects. Producers of the upcoming movie Fing!, adapted from his children’s book, confirmed his cameo had been removed. U.K. distributor Sky also dropped the film.
Meanwhile, the BBC announced it was reviewing programming featuring Walliams, including the popular comedy series Little Britain. His literary agency, Independent Talent Group, also ended its relationship with him.
Before the investigation became public, Walliams unsuccessfully sought a court order preventing the outlets from identifying him.
His attorney told the court that Walliams had attempted suicide and received psychiatric treatment amid the legal battle.
London’s Metropolitan Police have contacted the news organizations about ensuring potential victims know how to report allegations.
