Biography
David Walliams, born David Edward Williams on 20 August 1971, is an English comedian, actor, writer and television personality. He rose to fame alongside Matt Lucas as one half of the comedy duo behind Little BritainThe show, known for its satirical skits and memorable characters, was a huge success both in the UK and internationally, cementing Walliams’ status in the comedy world.
Besides Little BritainWalliams has made his mark as a children’s author, writing bestselling novels such as Boy in the dress, Gangsta GrannyAnd The Worst Kids in the WorldHis books are loved for their humor and imaginative storytelling, often conveying messages of self-acceptance and self-discovery.
David Walliams is also a prominent television figure, notably as a judge on British talentHis sharp wit and sometimes controversial statements have made him a standout figure. His television career has included a variety of acting and hosting roles, highlighting his versatility in the entertainment industry.
Outside of his professional work, Walliams is also known for his charitable endeavours, most notably swimming the English Channel for charity, which endeared him to the public for his determination and generosity.
English comedian and actor
David Walliams | |
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David Walliams: History ‧ Biography ‧ Photos | |
Wiki Events & About Data | |
Real name: | David Edward Williams |
Stage name: | David Walliams |
Born: | August 20, 1971 (age 53) |
Place of birth: | Wimbledon, London, UK |
Nationality: | Older brother |
Education: | Reigate Grammar School, University of Bristol |
Height: | 1.88 minutes |
Parents: | Kathleen Williams and Peter Williams |
Siblings: | Gareth Williams and Julie Williams |
Couple: | Lara Stone (married 2010–2015) |
Girlfriend • Partner: | Keeley Hazell (2019-2020), Lauren Budd (2009), Geri Horner (2007), Candice Warner (2007), Emily Scott (2006), Lisa Snowdon (2005-2009), Patsy Kensit (2004), Jessica Hynes, Ashley James, Abigail Titmuss (2006), Leilani Dowding (2005) |
The children: | Alfred Williams |
Job: | Actor • Comedian |
Net worth: | $19 million – $22 million (USD) |
Early life and education
David Walliams, born David Edward Williams on 20 August 1971 in Banstead, Surrey, England, is a comedian, actor, writer and television personality. He comes from a typical English family with no specific ethnic background mentioned. Raised in a Catholic household, Walliams was not particularly vocal about his religious beliefs as an adult.
His parents, Peter Williams, a London traffic engineer, and Kathleen Williams, a housewife, had a stormy marriage that ended in divorce during Walliams’ childhood. He has an older brother, Gareth Williams, who rarely makes public appearances, and an older sister, Julie Williams.
David Walliams attended Reigate Grammar Schoolwhere his interest in the performing arts often clashed with the school’s academic focus. He later studied Drama and French at University of Bristolwhere his involvement in the theatre community played a major role in shaping his future career.
Despite a difficult childhood due to his parents’ divorce and learning difficulties, Walliams’ passion for the performing arts eventually led him to become a prominent figure in the British entertainment industry, demonstrating resilience and dedication in his journey to success.
Career
David Walliams’ career has been a diverse journey spanning comedy, television, writing and acting, featuring both collaborative projects and solo work. He began his comedy career with college friend Matt Lucas, forming the duo “Walliams and Lucas“ .
Their early work on various shows led to their breakthrough with Little Britaina comedy show that aired from 2003 to 2007. The show highlighted Walliams’ comedic talents and ability to create iconic characters, achieving widespread success in the UK and internationally.
In addition to comedy, Walliams has also made his mark in acting with roles in films such as Stardust And The Look of Lovewhere he played the real-life character Paul Raymond. His television acting includes a wide range of roles, demonstrating his versatility from comedy to more dramatic performances.
David Walliams has also become a highly regarded children’s author. He debuted with Boy in the dress in 2008 and followed it up with several successful titles. His books are known for their humor and meaningful life lessons, loved by both children and adults.
Since 2012, Walliams has been a judge. British talentwhere his sharp wit and controversial statements made him a central figure.
Outside of his entertainment career, Walliams has undertaken a number of high-profile charity swims, including crossing the English Channel and the River Thames. These endeavours have not only raised significant funds for charity but have also attracted considerable media attention.
Social media
- Instagram: David Walliams HQ (@dwalliams)
- IMDb: David Walliams
- Twitter: David Walliams Headquarters (@davidwalliams) X
Personal life
David Walliams married Dutch model Lara Stone in May 2010, after starting their relationship in 2009 and getting engaged in January 2010. However, their marriage ended in divorce in 2015, with Walliams citing “unreasonable behavior” is the reason for the division.
Since her divorce, Walliams has been romantically linked to a number of people, including a playful engagement announcement to Suzan Mutesi in 2022, which was later clarified to be a joke rather than a serious commitment.
From his marriage to Lara Stone, Walliams has a son named Alfred Williams, born in May 2013. He and Stone share custody of the child and have made efforts to keep Alfred’s private life private, often obscuring his face in public photographs.
David Walliams is approximately 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 meters) tall.
In addition to his marriage, David Walliams has had several other relationships, including Keeley Hazell (2019–2020), Lauren Budd (2009), Geri Horner (2007), Candice Warner (2007), Emily Scott (2006), Lisa Snowdon (2005–2009), Patsy Kensit (2004), Jessica Hynes and Ashley James. He has also dated Abigail Titmuss (2006) and Leilani Dowding (2005).
Net worth
David Walliams, known for his contributions to comedy, television and children’s literature, has built a considerable net worth through his diverse career. Recent estimates place his net worth between $19 and $22 million.
His wealth came mainly from his role as a judge. British talentHis comedic collaborations with Matt Lucas, including Little Britain And Come fly with meand his successful children’s books. Walliams’ books have sold over 40 million copies worldwide, generating sales of over £100 million, with Walliams earning nearly £15 million from his initial book deal. His finances are further supported by numerous television appearances, acting roles and charity events, such as swimming challenges for Sport Relief.
List of movies played
Movie
- Stardust (2007): Walliams is best known for his role as the ghost prince Septimus in this fantasy film.
- The Look of Love (2013): In this biographical film, Walliams plays Paul Raymond, a British entertainment businessman.
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010) – He voiced the character Eustace Clarence Scrubb in this installment of the Narnia series.
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas (2008) – Although not a lead role, his performance as Lieutenant Kotler added depth to this touching film.
TV show
- Little Britain (2003-2006) – Co-created and co-starring with Matt Lucas, this sketch show became a huge hit, featuring iconic characters like Lou and Andy.
- Come Fly With Me (2010-2011) – Another collaboration with Matt Lucas, this show simulates airport life and air travel.
- Britain’s Got Talent – Since 2012, Walliams has been a judge on the popular talent show, showcasing his unique sense of humour and commentary.
- Big School (2013-2014) – A comedy in which Walliams plays a teacher, Mr. Church, in a struggling secondary school.
- The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole: The Cappuccino Years (2001) – Walliams plays George Mole, the protagonist’s father, in the film adaptation of Sue Townsend’s book.
- Gangsta Granny (2013) – Based on his own book, Walliams starred in this BBC adaptation, playing Ben’s dad.
- The Boy in the Dress (2014) – Another adaptation of his work, also featuring him.
- Killer Net (1998) – A television series where Walliams played a major role, demonstrating his dramatic acting abilities.