David Walliams has been identified as the British celebrity at the centre of a court battle over sexual misconduct allegations, after weeks of legal efforts to keep his name secret.
Walliams, a children’s author, actor and comedian, was referred to as “PPT” during proceedings involving attempts to prevent ITN and The Guardian from publishing allegations against him. He has denied the claims.
The allegations concern claims that he used his fame and influence to pursue inappropriate and exploitative sexual relationships with numerous girls and young women over a period of years.
Walliams’s lawyers argued that publication of the allegations could have deadly consequences and warned that he was at serious risk of dying by suicide if his identity became known.
Lawyers for ITN and The Guardian opposed the attempt to suppress the allegations, arguing that they were of sufficient public importance to be reported. They said concerns about his mental health should be dealt with by medical professionals rather than by restricting the press.
At the High Court on Tuesday, Judge Matthew Nicklin rejected the bid to prevent publication. Walliams’s identity remained protected temporarily while a possible appeal was considered.
The case prompted widespread online speculation about the identity of the unnamed celebrity. Judge Nicklin warned the public against attempting to identify him, with anyone breaching the court order potentially facing imprisonment.
Walliams is best known for his work on the BBC sketch series Little Britain and Come Fly With Me, as well as for writing children’s books.
His identity has now been made public following the court proceedings and the end of weeks of secrecy surrounding the case.
