The children's author David Walliams lost his contract with longtime publisher.
Prolific young adult author and comedian David Walliams has been dropped by his longtime publishing house, the company has said.
An official for the company said: "Upon deliberation, and under the leadership of its recently appointed chief executive, HarperCollins UK has decided not to publish future works by David Walliams."
Media sources suggest that the decision was reached following an investigation into reports of conduct deemed unsuitable directed at female individuals.
The company did not confirm the specific rationale behind the move, stating: "It is not our policy to discuss private personnel issues."
A Prolific Publishing History
Walliams is one of the UK's most best-selling authors for kids, having sold over six tens of millions of copies internationally in dozens of tongues.
His first children's book, *The Boy in the Dress*, was published by HarperCollins in 2008.
Several of his titles, including *Gangsta Granny* and *Billionaire Boy*, have subsequently been turned into small-screen adaptations.
He has published more than 40 books altogether, encompassing a festive story named *Santa & Son*, which was published by HarperCollins in October.
A Dual Career
He first rose to fame on the television comedy show *Little Britain* and has additionally received National Television Awards for his duties as an arbiter on *Britain's Got Talent*.
He was awarded an OBE back in 2017 for his services to the charitable sector and arts community.
This development follows the selection of Kate Elton as HarperCollins UK's recent CEO last fall.