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

Ex-Co-Host Files Bullying Claim Against Dan Walker and Channel 5 News

TV personality Dan Walker will face an employment tribunal following a claim by his former Channel 5 News co-host, Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije, who alleges she experienced bullying during their collaboration. The case, which names ITN—the network behind Channel 5 News—as well as Paramount, the channel’s parent company, as respondents, is being handled by Vanderpuije’s legal representative. A spokesperson for ITN stated that the allegations are “denied in full” and will be contested through the tribunal process.

According to The Mail on Sunday, which first broke the news, Vanderpuije’s claim also includes accusations of sexism and misogyny. The tribunal is scheduled to commence in London on 20 April and is expected to span five weeks, as confirmed by Jonathan Coad, her lawyer. Walker, who previously co-hosted BBC Breakfast and appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, joined Vanderpuije on Channel 5 News in 2022 before she departed the show in 2024.

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

Earlier, a company investigation into allegations against Walker did not support the claims, with no misconduct identified. Vanderpuije’s legal team reportedly has over 50 character witness statements backing her case. The trial will now determine whether the accusations hold weight, with both Walker and Paramount awaiting further comments on the matter.

ITN’s CEO, Rachel Corp, is also listed as a respondent in the legal action. The case highlights ongoing tensions within the media industry, as Vanderpuije seeks resolution for her alleged experiences of workplace bullying and gender-based discrimination.