What Happened to David Walliams BGT? Why was He Replaced on the Show?
by Aishwarya R
Updated May 29, 2023
Who is David Walliams on BGT?
David Walliams, the extraordinary English comedian, actor, author, and television personality, has captivated audiences worldwide with his immense talent and boundless creativity. With his infectious humor and unparalleled wit, Walliams has carved a place for himself in the hearts of millions. Best known for his remarkable collaborations with Matt Lucas on the BBC sketch comedy series Little Britain and Come Fly With Me, Walliams has consistently delivered laughter and joy to viewers. His comedic brilliance knows no bounds, and his ability to bring characters to life is nothing short of remarkable.
Beyond his comedic genius, Walliams has graced our screens as a judge on the iconic television talent show Britain's Got Talent for a remarkable decade. His keen eye for talent, genuine enthusiasm, and constructive criticism have endeared him to contestants and viewers alike. His contributions to the show have been recognized with prestigious awards, including Best TV Judge at the National Television Awards multiple times. But Walliams's talents extend far beyond the world of comedy and television. He is also a gifted author, enchanting young readers with his captivating children's books.
With over 37 million copies sold worldwide and translated into 53 languages, Walliams has become a literary sensation. Drawing comparisons to the beloved Roald Dahl, his stories whisk children away on incredible adventures, sparking their imaginations and igniting their love for reading. Not content with just penning captivating tales, Walliams has also brought his stories to life on the screen. His books, such as Mr Stink, Gangsta Granny, and Billionaire Boy, have been adapted into delightful television films, where Walliams himself graces the screen with his undeniable charm and magnetic presence.
David Walliams is not just a multi-talented entertainer; he is a true inspiration. His creativity knows no boundaries, and his dedication to bringing laughter and joy to people of all ages is truly admirable. Whether he's making us laugh, inspiring young minds through his books, or showcasing his versatility as an actor, Walliams is a force to be reckoned with.
What Happened to David Walliams BGT?
David Walliams' tenure on Britain's Got Talent came to an abrupt end following the revelation of vulgar remarks he had allegedly made about certain contestants. The comedian and children's author had served as a judge on the popular ITV reality series for a decade. The offensive comments, which included derogatory language and insulting descriptions, were reported by The Guardian in November 2022. Walliams apologized, stating that the remarks were taken out of context from private conversations with friends and were never meant to be made public.
While other celebrities have faced more severe controversies and managed to retain their positions, Walliams' comments drew significant backlash due to their offensive nature. The optics of his remarks likely contributed to the decision to remove him from the judging panel. The exact details of to whom Walliams made these remarks and why they were not addressed at the time have been overlooked amid the public outrage. Simon Cowell, a prominent figure on the show, mentioned that Walliams had decided to step back, and the final decision was made by the show's producers.
As a result, the 16th series of Britain's Got Talent premiered with ex-Strictly Come Dancing judge Bruno Tonioli replacing Walliams. However, the issues faced by BGT run deeper than Walliams' controversy. The show has been grappling with declining viewership, with the premiere of the latest series garnering the lowest ratings for a season opener since the show's inception in 2007. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including the rise of streaming services and a shift in viewer preferences towards dating shows and unique competition formats.
BGT has traditionally relied on novelty acts, ranging from animal trainers to impressionists and magicians. But what happens when the novelty factor diminishes? Furthermore, the scandal involving Walliams is indicative of a long-standing issue within BGT itself. The show has often exhibited a condescending attitude towards its contestants. Looking back, the treatment of breakout star Susan Boyle during the show's peak popularity is particularly discomforting. Simon Cowell's reputation for delivering cutting assessments and occasionally crossing the line into cruelty has become synonymous with his presence on this show and others.
Unlike many other reality series, BGT allows children to compete, which has resulted in instances where young participants have broken down in tears on stage. Despite the show's claim that the welfare of the child should take precedence over ratings, distressing moments involving children have continued to be broadcast to the nation. David Walliams' departure from Britain's Got Talent was a consequence of his offensive remarks about contestants. However, the show faces broader challenges, including declining viewership and a need to address its treatment of participants, especially children.
Why was David Walliams replaced on BGT?
David Walliams was replaced on Britain's Got Talent due to the controversy surrounding inappropriate remarks he made about contestants. The issue came to light in November 2022 when The Guardian reported on derogatory comments Walliams had allegedly made during breaks in filming the show's 2020 season. He referred to one contestant using a derogatory term and made a sexually explicit comment about another. In response to the revelation, Walliams issued an apology, acknowledging the disrespectful nature of his comments. He clarified that the remarks were made during private conversations and were never intended to be shared publicly.
Thames, the production company behind BGT, deemed the language used as inappropriate and addressed the matter with those involved. Simon Cowell, a key figure on the show, emphasized that Britain's Got Talent is a family-oriented program and condemned the use of such language. Although Walliams did not officially announce his departure from the show, The Sun reported in November 2022 that he would be quitting BGT and would not feature in the upcoming season. However, at that time, there was no official confirmation regarding the judging panel.
In January 2023, ITV confirmed that Walliams would not be returning to Britain's Got Talent and announced the new panel, which included Simon Cowell, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden, and new addition Bruno Tonioli. The decision to replace Walliams was made in light of the controversy and to ensure the show maintained its family-friendly image. The remarks made by Walliams were deemed disrespectful and not in line with the expectations of professional conduct on the program. Therefore, the show's producers and ITV decided it was best to part ways with Walliams and bring in a new judge for the upcoming season.
Who Replaced David Walliams on BGT?
Bruno Tonioli, the charismatic and talented British-Italian television personality, has stepped into the spotlight as the replacement for David Walliams on the upcoming season of Britain's Got Talent. With his infectious energy, undeniable charm, and impressive credentials, Tonioli is set to bring a fresh and vibrant presence to the judging panel. Renowned for his role as a judge on popular television shows such as Strictly Come Dancing, Dancing with the Stars, and now Britain's Got Talent, Tonioli has carved a remarkable career in the entertainment industry.
His expertise as a choreographer and dancer has graced the stages and music videos of legendary artists like Tina Turner, Sting, Elton John, and the Rolling Stones. With his artistic flair and captivating moves, he has left an indelible mark on the world of music and performance. Tonioli's passion for dance extends far beyond his professional endeavors. He co-created and appeared on the exhilarating BBC One talent show DanceX, captivating audiences with his infectious enthusiasm and eye for exceptional talent.
He also conquered the American television scene with the exhilarating dance competition Dance War: Bruno vs. Carrie Ann, showcasing his immense talent and captivating personality to a whole new audience. Beyond his remarkable achievements, Tonioli's personal journey is an inspiration. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, he has openly shared the challenges he faced due to homophobic bullying during his youth. His resilience and unwavering spirit have made him a symbol of strength and empowerment for countless individuals around the world.
Love has also found its way into Tonioli's life, as he has been in a loving relationship with Jason Schanne since 2010. Their enduring partnership stands as a testament to the power of love and the beauty of embracing one's true self. With his multilingual abilities and worldly experiences, Tonioli brings a global perspective to the stage. Fluent in Italian, English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, he effortlessly bridges cultural boundaries and connects with people from all walks of life.
As we eagerly await the new season of Britain's Got Talent, we can be certain that Bruno Tonioli will ignite the stage with his unparalleled passion, insightful critiques, and infectious enthusiasm. His vibrant personality and remarkable talent will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the hearts of contestants and viewers alike. Get ready to be swept away on a journey of awe-inspiring performances and exhilarating entertainment as Bruno Tonioli takes his rightful place on the judging panel.
Is David Walliams Gay?
No, David Walliams is not Gay. Hei is renowned for his camp characters on screen and has often faced inquiries about his sexual orientation. During his appearance on Desert Island Discs in 2009, host Kirsty Young directly asked him if he had ever been in a relationship with a man. Walliams responded by stating that he hadn't, but he expressed openness to the idea, saying, "If I fell in love with a man then, yeah, I wouldn't say that could never happen. I think about it; because I am effeminate I've always thought about it, 'Am I gay?'
And then, I so love being with women, and I so love women's bodies and all that. I think, well no, I can't be. But sometimes I think it would just be simpler if I was because everyone thinks I am. I'm quite camp, but no, I don't think I am." He further emphasized his love for women, stating, "Definitely I love women, I love being around women, I find them incredible and intoxicating, and I've never had that feeling I get with women with a man." Walliams was previously married to Dutch supermodel Lara Stone from 2010 to 2015.
Their lavish wedding took place at London's Claridge's hotel in 2010. However, their marriage ended in a "quickie divorce" after Walliams cited his wife's "unreasonable behavior." The couple shares a son named Alfred, born in 2013. While Walliams and Stone prefer to shield their child from the public eye, he remains a cherished part of their lives.
David Walliams Early Life
David Walliams, a beacon of talent and creativity, entered this world at St Teresa's Maternity Hospital in Wimbledon, nestled within the vibrant London Borough of Merton, in the year 1971. His parents, Peter Williams and Kathleen Williams, bestowed upon him a legacy of hard work and perseverance. Peter, a London Transport engineer, and Kathleen, a dedicated laboratory technician at Sutton Grammar School, instilled in their son the values of diligence and determination.
Growing up in the enchanting residential area of Nork, situated in Banstead, Surrey, David was surrounded by the love and support of his family. Alongside his mother, father, and sister Julie, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery and nurtured his innate talents. Collingwood Boys' School in Wallington and Reigate Grammar School in Surrey served as the stepping stones to his academic growth, where he thrived amidst a community of eager learners. It was during this time that he found a kindred spirit in writer Robert Shearman, their shared passion for storytelling forming an everlasting bond.
In 1989, David's path led him to the esteemed University of Bristol, a realm of knowledge and artistic exploration. Residing in the hallowed halls of Manor Hall, he embraced the transformative power of drama, honing his craft and embracing the depths of his creativity. In 1992, armed with a Bachelor of Arts degree, David emerged as a shining star, ready to illuminate the world with his unique brilliance.
During university holidays in 1990, the cosmos aligned as David joined forces with the National Youth Theatre. It was within this realm of youthful exuberance that he encountered a kindred spirit, a soul whose comedic genius would intertwine with his own. Matt Lucas, a fellow artist, became both friend and collaborator, their bond forever etched in the annals of comedy history.
As David embarked on his professional journey, he embraced change, adopting the stage name David Walliams to avoid confusion with another talented individual. Through dedication and unwavering passion, he found his place among the esteemed members of Equity, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft.
David Walliams, a name that resonates with inspiration and artistic brilliance, stands as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. From humble beginnings to captivating audiences around the world, he continues to shine as a beacon of talent, reminding us all that dreams are within reach and that with determination, we can craft our own destinies.
David Walliams Net Worth
David Walliams generates income from various sources, reflecting his diverse talents and successful career. Walliams has established himself as a prominent television personality, appearing in numerous shows and productions. He has been a judge on the popular talent show Britain's Got Talent, which has contributed significantly to his earnings. Additionally, he has written and starred in his own sitcoms, such as Big School and Walliams & Friend, further bolstering his television income.
Walliams initially gained fame as a comedian, particularly through his collaboration with Matt Lucas on the sketch comedy series Little Britain and Come Fly With Me. His comedic performances and live shows have allowed him to generate substantial income through ticket sales and appearances. Walliams has achieved remarkable success as a children's book author. His imaginative and humorous books have captivated young readers worldwide, resulting in significant book sales and royalties. With over 37 million copies sold globally and translations into multiple languages, his writing endeavors have become a lucrative source of income.
In addition to his comedic roles, Walliams has showcased his acting abilities in various television dramas and films. He has appeared in productions such as Partners in Crime and has taken on character roles in adaptations of his own books, including Mr Stink and Gangsta Granny. Acting roles contribute to his overall income, allowing him to diversify his creative pursuits. As a well-known public figure, Walliams has been involved in endorsements and collaborations with brands. These partnerships enable him to endorse products and services, adding another stream of income to his portfolio.
Name
David Walliams
Net Worth 2023
$25 Million
Profession
Comedian,actor, writer, television personality
Age
51
Source of Income
Though his Enteratainment Industry career
David Walliams Net Worth
What Happened to David Walliams BGT - FAQs
David Walliams' full name is David Edward Williams.
David Walliams was born on August 20, 1971.
David Walliams is best known for his work on the BBC sketch comedy series Little Britain, which aired from 2003 to 2006.
David Walliams has written numerous children's books. He has published over 25 books, which have sold more than 37 million copies worldwide.
Yes, David Walliams has received several awards for his contributions to entertainment. Notably, he has won the National Television Award for Best TV Judge multiple times for his role on Britain's Got Talent.