BGT star David Walliams looking confused in a red shirt
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BGT star David Walliams on ‘very long lasting’ health battle that ‘pushed him to try and end his life’

Has been open about his mental health for many years

BGT star David Walliams entertains millions every week, making fans laugh with glee every time he appears on the screen.

But the much-loved comedian, TV personality and author has endured more than his fair share of unhappy times himself.

David, 50, has addressed his life-long battle with depression in public going back many years. He has also spoken about numerous attempts at taking his own life.

However, David has also revealed how becoming a father has helped him deal with his own issues.

Bear Grylls and David Walliams
BGT star David Walliams discussed his mental health with Bear Grylls (Credit: ITV YouTube)

BGT judge David Walliams: ‘I’ve been very, very down’

David opened up about his mental health battle back in 2019 during an episode of Bear’s Mission for ITV.

He reflected on his depression with host Bear Grylls in the extreme challenge show.

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David told The Mirror at the time: “I have had struggles with depression in the past. There have been periods through my life when I’ve been very, very down and it’s been very long lasting.”

I have had struggles with depression in the past.

However, David felt his condition had improved. And he credited that to becoming a dad to Alfred in 2013, his son he shares with ex-wife Lara Stone.

David Walliams and ex-wife Lara Stone smiling
David was previously married to Lara Stone and they have a little boy together (Credit: SplashNews.com)

‘You do stop dwelling on your own problems so much’

The Britain’s Got Talent favourite added: “I’m certainly in a better place now. And one great thing about becoming a parent, your whole life starts revolving around them and you do stop dwelling on your own problems so much, because you don’t have time to.”

David, whose bestselling books for kids include The Boy in the Dress and Gangsta Granny, also noted how writing helps, too.

David Walliams smiles on BGT
BGT fave David Walliams is one of Saturday night telly’s biggest stars (Credit: Britain’s Got Talent YouTube)

He explained: “I don’t really like being alone with my thoughts for very long… when you’re writing you’re not alone. You’ve got the characters, they’re like – it sounds a bit tragic – but they’re kind of like friends.”

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And although the Little Britain star acknowledges depression can be set off by many different things, he encouraged all those suffering to reach out for help and not feel any shame.

If you are struggling with your mental health, contact the Samaritans online or call 116 123 from any phone for free.

BGT airs on ITV, Saturday May 14, at 8pm.

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Robert Leigh
Freelance writer