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

Dan Walker Set for Employment Tribunal Over Bullying Allegations

TV personality Dan Walker is set to face an employment tribunal following a claim by his former co-host at Channel 5 News, Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije, who alleges she experienced bullying during their time together. The case also names ITN, the production company behind the channel, and its parent organization Paramount as defendants, according to Vanderpuije’s legal representative.

According to *The Mail on Sunday*, which initially reported the story, Walker is additionally accused of fostering a sexist and misogynistic environment. The publication cited an anonymous source, stating that Walker has gathered over 50 character references to support his defense. An internal inquiry into the allegations against him previously concluded without finding any misconduct.

“ITN fully denies the claim and will address it through the tribunal process,” said a spokesperson for the company.

Vanderpuije, who previously hosted *BBC Breakfast*, left Channel 5 News in 2024 after joining Walker as a co-host in 2022. The tribunal, which will commence in London on 20 April, is scheduled for a five-week duration. ITN’s CEO, Rachel Corp, is also listed as a respondent to the case.

Walker, known for his appearances on *Strictly Come Dancing*, has been approached for his perspective on the allegations. The legal team representing Vanderpuije, led by Jonathan Coad, will present the case, while Walker maintains his stance of innocence. The trial will determine the validity of the bullying and gender-based claims against him.