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

Dan Walker to Face Employment Tribunal Over Bullying Allegations

Television personality Dan Walker will be present at an employment tribunal following a claim filed by his former co-host on Channel 5 News. Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije, who previously worked alongside Walker, alleges she experienced bullying during her time with the network. ITN, the production company behind Channel 5 News, and its parent organization Paramount are also named as parties involved in the case, as confirmed by Vanderpuije’s legal representative.

The Mail on Sunday first disclosed the allegations, which include accusations of sexism and misogyny against Walker. A representative from ITN stated that the claim is “denied in full,” though the specifics of the dispute remain under review. Vanderpuije’s lawyer, Jonathan Coad, indicated the trial will commence in London on 20 April and is scheduled for a duration of five weeks.

“This claim, which is denied in full, will be addressed through the tribunal process,” said an ITN spokesperson.

According to the newspaper, Walker has amassed over 50 character witness statements to support his defense. Additionally, a prior internal inquiry into the allegations against him did not substantiate any misconduct. Vanderpuije departed from Channel 5 News in 2024, after joining the show with Walker in 2022. ITN’s chief executive, Rachel Corp, is also listed as a respondent in the legal action.

Both Walker and Paramount have been contacted for their perspectives on the case, though no formal comments have been released yet. The tribunal will now serve as the primary platform to resolve the dispute, with all parties preparing for the upcoming proceedings.