David Walliams Real Name and Birth Details
David Walliams real name is David Edward Williams. He was born on 20 August 1971 in Wimbledon, London, England. His parents are Peter and Kathleen Williams, and he grew up in the London Borough of Merton, attending Reigate Grammar School before studying law at the University of Bristol.
The comedian legally changed his stage name from David Edward Williams to David Walliams early in his career to create a more memorable professional identity. The name "Walliams" is a stage surname he adopted for television and publishing, while his birth certificate and official records still list him as David Edward Williams.
Career Highlights and Public Identity
David Walliams rose to fame through his work on the sketch comedy show Little Britain, which aired on BBC from 2003 to 2006 and returned for specials. He co-wrote and performed multiple characters alongside Matt Lucas, and the show became one of the most-watched comedy franchises on British television.
Beyond comedy, Walliams has authored over 30 children's books, many of which have topped bestseller lists in the United Kingdom. His titles have been translated into dozens of languages, and several have been adapted for stage and screen. He has also served as a judge on talent shows such as Britain's Got Talent and America's Got Talent, expanding his public profile internationally.
Personal Life, Charity Work, and Net Worth
David Walliams married Lara Stone, a Dutch model, in 2010, and they have one son together. The couple separated in 2015, and Walliams continues to live and work in London. He is known for his charity swimming challenges, including solo swims across the English Channel and the Strait of Gibraltar, raising millions for the charity Sport Relief.
Estimates of David Walliams net worth place him among the wealthiest entertainers in the UK, with earnings from television, books, and live performances. His financial success is documented in industry reports and public filings, and his charitable donations are tracked through UK registered charity accounts. For background on UK charity reporting standards, see the Charity Commission website Charity Commission, and for broader context on celebrity philanthropy, see Forbes Forbes.