Dan Walker to appear at tribunal as ex co-host brings bullying claim

Dan Walker Set for Employment Tribunal Over Bullying Allegations

TV personality Dan Walker has been scheduled to attend an employment tribunal following a lawsuit filed by his former Channel 5 News co-host, Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije. The case accuses Walker of subjecting Vanderpuije to bullying, with ITN and Paramount, the parent company of Channel 5, also named as parties involved. Vanderpuije’s legal representative confirmed the claim, stating that the allegations will be examined in the tribunal process.

According to a report by The Mail on Sunday, the former BBC Breakfast host is additionally charged with fostering a sexist and misogynistic environment. An ITN spokesperson emphasized that the accusations are “completely rejected,” and both Walker and Paramount have been contacted for their responses. The newspaper cited an anonymous source, indicating Walker denies the claims and has gathered over 50 character references to support his defense.

“The claim is denied in full,” said an ITN representative.

A prior internal inquiry into Vanderpuije’s allegations against Walker did not substantiate the accusations, with no evidence of misconduct identified. The trial, expected to last five weeks, will take place in London starting on 20 April. Vanderpuije and Walker began their collaboration on Channel 5 News in 2022, but she departed the network in 2024. ITN’s CEO, Rachel Corp, is also listed as a respondent in the case.