A high-profile courtroom battle has begun involving Dan Walker, with the Channel 5 star facing serious allegations of bullying, sexism, and racial discrimination — claims he firmly denies.
The 49-year-old presenter is at the centre of an employment tribunal brought by his former co-host Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije, who has accused him of contributing to what she describes as a toxic newsroom culture.
The case, which is expected to last up to five weeks, is being heard at the London Tribunals Centre, with Walker named as a respondent alongside ITN and Paramount Global, the parent company of Channel 5.
But in a twist that raised eyebrows, Walker did not attend the first day of the hearing. Instead, Vanderpuije was photographed arriving at the tribunal in a composed appearance, while Walker stayed away — later posting on X about an “exciting day” hosting a Classic FM event at the Royal Albert Hall, without mentioning the legal proceedings.
Vanderpuije, 47, who left Channel 5 in 2024 after six years, has filed claims including unfair dismissal, harassment, and discrimination based on race and sex. She also alleges she suffered retaliation after raising concerns under whistleblowing protections, describing her exit as a “sham redundancy.”
Her legal team reportedly attempted to settle the case for £4 million — but the offer was refused. However, her representatives later clarified that multiple settlement offers had in fact been initiated by the respondents, all of which Vanderpuije rejected.
Despite the seriousness of the accusations, Walker has continued to strongly deny all claims. Speaking previously, he insisted the allegations had already been investigated and found to be “completely incorrect,” adding: “I know I’m not that person… you hold on to what you know the truth is.”
Support has also poured in from colleagues, including former BBC star Sue Barker, who publicly backed Walker, calling him “one of the nicest, most courteous and hard-working presenters” she has worked with.
Insiders say more than 50 character witnesses — including athletes, journalists and fellow presenters — are prepared to defend Walker as the case unfolds.
With both sides standing firm, the tribunal is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched media battles of the year.
