British television production company, Freemantle, the brains behind Britain’s Got Talent, is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with former judge David Walliams. The company expressed their hope to reach an amicable resolution but has also affirmed their readiness to staunchly defend themselves if required. Walliams has reportedly filed a multi-million pound legal claim against the production company.
The Sun on Sunday revealed that the well-known comedian and author is seeking up to £10m for lost earnings and damages. The basis of Walliams’ lawsuit is a data protection case which accuses Freemantle of leaving his microphone turned on and recording throughout filming sessions, even during breaks. It is alleged that thousands of hours of sensitive and private conversations were recorded and transcribed without his consent or knowledge.
Among the recordings were private information and confidential discussions that Walliams had not intended to be recorded. The newspaper also reported that Walliams experienced suicidal thoughts after leaving the show when leaks of him making disrespectful comments about contestants were made public.
In response to these allegations, a spokesperson from Freemantle stated, “We had a long and productive relationship with David and so are surprised and saddened by this legal action.” They added that the company is ready for a dialogue to resolve this matter amiably. However, they also stated that they would take time to study the various allegations and would not hesitate to defend themselves robustly, if necessary.
Walliams, age 52, exited Britain’s Got Talent when his derogatory remarks about contestants were leaked in 2022, followed by an appearance of the transcript in media outlets. He subsequently released a statement apologising for these disrespectful comments, stating they were part of private conversations never intended for public consumption.
After Walliams’ departure from the show, he was replaced by former Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli who joined Simon Cowell, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon on the judging panel.