David Walliams removed from Australian children’s film Fing

Production cuts confirmed by distributors

Transmission Films stated that Walliams will not participate in the Australian publicity campaign for the film. The distributor confirmed his cameo appearance as a character called Headmaster has been removed from the movie entirely. Stan streaming platform also dropped the title from its content slate after the theatrical run was scheduled for January 14. Angel Studios in the United States and UK distributor Sky have similarly decided to remove Walliams from their release plans or exit the project completely.

Allegations led to global distribution changes

An investigation by The Guardian and ITV alleged Walliams groomed teenage fans and sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl. His lawyers said he denied targeting teenagers or using his fame to manipulate them into having sex. He previously lost a High Court battle in the UK to avoid being identified in media and did not appeal that decision. The film was shot in Queensland in 2025 with support from Screen Queensland and features Taika Waititi and Mia Wasikowska.

Publicity will focus on local cast

According to a Transmission Films representative, the initiative will shift its attention toward the movie's Australian directing team and principal actors. This fantasy family movie centers on parents seeking a legendary creature to calm their difficult child, inspired by the 2019 book from Walliams. The screenplay was written by Walliams and Kevin Cecil while Jeffery Walker directs this UK Australia co-production project.