BGT SITE ‘COULD ENCOURAGE KIDS TO BET’ Walliams blasted for gambling ads
DAVID Walliams is under fire for promoting a Britain’s Got Talent gambling website.
The multi-millionaire TV judge, who also writes children’s books, has cashed in as the new star of its radio adverts.
But the move has sparked a backlash from fans and betting addiction experts. The site, inset, which has the backing of the Britain’s Got Talent brand, offers slots and casino games.
An introduction says: “Everyone’s favourite talent show has been given a star-studded slingo twist.”
In another reference to BGT, it adds: “Buzzers at the ready!”
Walliams, 46, agreed to promote the site by recording radio adverts which feature him encouraging listeners to sign up. The ads point out that they have age restrictions.
But one angry fan said: “Unimpressed if it is you and you are endorsing online gambling when you have such a high profile with kids & families #gamblingaware #ethics #mentalhealth #poverty”. Another said they were “surprised” David was involved and added: “Thought u were better than that.” Little Britain star Walliams, who is said to be worth £25million, has so far ignored fans’ anger on Twitter.
Gambling addiction expert Liz Karter said: “David doing this means the site could potentially appeal to children. In a way it gives gambling a softer image.
“Because David is a children’s author this could give the feeling of gambling being an innocent pastime – which of course it can be, but it can also lead to addiction.
“Online sites open the door to inappropriate use unfortunately. It’s almost impossible for them to be absolutely certain people are the age they say they are when gambling.
“Adverts reach people who are vulnerable and could become addicted.” Bosses at GambleAware also warned Walliams’ latest project could be damaging for his younger fans.
CEO Marc Etches said: “We are concerned about the normalisation of gambling for children, in particular by the promotion of gambling by popular family entertainment programmes.
“In a world where smartphones give easy access to online gambling, we all share a responsibility to protect children from gambling-related harm and this includes those who profit from shows such as Britain’s Got Talent.”
A study by the UK Gambling Commission in 2016 found 450,000 children in England and Wales were betting on a weekly basis – with 9,000 of them likely to develop a problem.
Showbiz agent Barry Tomes claimed backing the gaming site was a silly move. He said: “This is something he should have avoided, especially because he is known for writing children’s books. I would have advised him not to do something as controversial as this.”
David’s representatives made no comment.