Dan Walker’s Former Co-Host Withdraws Allegations Against Presenter

Former Channel 5 News presenter Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije has withdrawn her claims against co-host Dan Walker following a mutual agreement with their employers, ITN and Channel 5. The allegations, which included unfair dismissal, discrimination and harassment on grounds of race and sex, and breach of contract, were set to be heard at an employment tribunal in London.

Vanderpuije’s legal representatives confirmed that a settlement had been reached, stating: “Claudia-Liza fully withdraws her allegations relating to Dan Walker and does not intend to repeat or pursue them.” The broadcaster and production company agreed to pay Vanderpuije an undisclosed amount to withdraw the tribunal claim, with no admission of liability.

Dan Walker responded to the development on social media, emphasizing that he had not agreed to the settlement and remained prepared to defend himself at tribunal. In a statement shared on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), he wrote: “Channel 5 and ITN have reached an agreement with the claimant. I firmly feel that I should never have been pulled into this; however, I was fully prepared to head to tribunal and defend the allegations which were levelled at me.” He added: “Some news… all allegations withdrawn. I did NOT agree to settle.”

Walker also expressed continued concern for Vanderpuije’s wellbeing, saying: “Through all of this, I have always been concerned for the claimant’s wellbeing, and that has not changed. I hope she finds peace.” He thanked his family, friends, legal team, and colleagues at 5 News and Classic FM for their support during the process.

Both ITN and Channel 5 issued statements denying any wrongdoing. Channel 5 said: “We strongly reject the claims that were made and are pleased that this matter has been resolved and that all the allegations relating to Dan Walker have been withdrawn.” An ITN spokesperson added: “We continue to deny these claims in full, and we are glad this matter has been resolved.”

The employment dispute originated after Vanderpuije raised concerns about a toxic newsroom culture, alleging she was subjected to a sham redundancy following protected disclosures as a whistleblower. She claimed the editorial output reflected an environment of racism, sexism, misogyny and bullying, and that attempts were made to cover up the culture despite obligations under the Equality Act 2010 and Ofcom licensing requirements.

Walker and Vanderpuije co-hosted a show on Channel 5 News between 2022 and 2023. Vanderpuije left the channel in 2024, while Walker continues in his role as a presenter.