14 October 2023 , 21:46
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David Walliams has made a return to the spotlight – taking to the stage to promote his new book and appearing in public for the first time since he began a lawsuit against the makers of Britain’s Got Talent.
The 52-year-old comedian was in Stockton-On-Tees in Teeside on Saturday to promote his new children’s novel, The Blunders. He appeared on stage at The Arc theatre wearing a brown suit and light blue shirt while reading extracts from his books to the delights of the live audience – and had left in attendance amused when he struck yoga poses on stage.
David later took time to mingle with his fans, speaking to his young audience, mingling with fellow parents, and signing autographs for his admirers too. He looked to be in high spirits during his day of promotion, flashing a winning smile for cameras and looking pleased to be out with his audience.
His upbeat appearance makes a stark contrast for the TV star as he has been suing the producers of Britain’s Got Talent for breach of privacy – after details of private conversations leaked last year. Fans were left stunned and aghast last November when transcripts of conversations reportedly from the filming locations of BGT auditions were made public.
David Walliams has been back on stage - to promote his new book (TERRY BLACKBURN / BACKGRID)In the conversations, David reportedly referred to a member of the public as a “c**t” and also made derogatory remarks about another female hopeful. The comments drew condemnation from fans and critics alike – and reports soon emerged that David had quit the hit ITV show after he apologised for the remarks.
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In more recent weeks, London’s High Court has heard that David was left feeling “suicidal” following the scandal – and also complained he had been left “unable to be funny” following his abrupt exit from the ITV show. The star also made allegations that he believed he had been secretly recorded by the makers of the show, with the court hearing he believed he had been recorded when he went to the bathroom.
Fremantle, the company that makes Britain’s Got Talent, has denied the allegations. A spokesperson for the company told the Mirror last weekend: “We had a long and productive relationship with David and so are surprised and saddened by this legal action.
“For our part, we remain available and open to dialogue to resolve this matter amicably. However, in the interim, we will examine the various allegations and are prepared to robustly defend ourselves if necessary.“
Meanwhile, former friends David and Simon Cowell are said to have explosively fallen out over the court case. Fans noticed the talent show boss brutally snubbed the comedian – but unceremoniously unfollowing him on Instagram.
Following his exit from the show, David was replaced on Britain's Got Talent by former Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli. And the show returned to screens without David earlier this year - with with Norwegian clown performer Viggo Venn winning the contest and the £250,000 prize, as well as a slot on the bill at the next Royal Variety Performance.