Kate Smurthwaite says comics repeatedly warned each other about Walliams

Comedian Kate Smurthwaite says David Walliams was repeatedly named in a WhatsApp group where female comics shared warnings about men in the industry. Her account adds to scrutiny of how concerns about powerful entertainers are handled, while Walliams denies allegations of sexual misconduct and says he is not a sexual predator.

Smurthwaite said women had reported feeling uncomfortable around Walliams or considered his behaviour inappropriate, particularly towards young people and new acts. Author Chloe Combi also said she was advised more than a decade ago not to invite him to a project involving teenagers and to warn schools against booking him. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy plans to meet broadcasters and has threatened legislation if the industry fails to address abuse and harassment.