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

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

Dan Walker, a prominent TV presenter, will face an employment tribunal after Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije, his former co-host on Channel 5 News, filed a claim alleging workplace bullying. Vanderpuije’s legal representative confirmed that both ITN, the production company behind the news channel, and Paramount, its parent organization, are listed as respondents in the case. The Mail on Sunday, which first reported the story, added that Walker is accused of sexism and misogyny in addition to the bullying allegations.

ITN and Paramount deny the claim

An ITN spokesperson stated the allegations are “denied in full” and emphasized the tribunal process will address the matter. Walker, who has been approached for comment, is said to have over 50 character witness statements supporting his defense. A prior internal review of the claims against him did not find evidence of misconduct.

Timeline of events and background

Vanderpuije and Walker worked together on Channel 5 News since 2022, but she departed the show in 2024. The trial is scheduled to begin in London on 20 April and is expected to span five weeks. Vanderpuije’s lawyer, Jonathan Coad, outlined the legal proceedings. ITN’s CEO, Rachel Corp, is also named as a respondent to the case.

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

The case highlights ongoing disputes over workplace conduct, with Vanderpuije’s allegations challenging Walker’s professional behavior. The tribunal will assess the validity of the claims, which include both bullying and gender-based accusations. Details of the internal investigation and Walker’s responses remain under scrutiny ahead of the trial’s start date.