'It's a tense atmosphere' David Walliams 'facing Britain's Got Talent axe'
DAVID WALLIAMS could be facing the boot from the Britain's Got Talent judging panel, according to reports.
There's 'tension' between Simon Cowell and David Walliams
A spokesperson for the show recently denied claims suggesting that David was "getting annoyed" with some of Simon Cowell's comments.
However, sources have said that the atmosphere has still been "tense" and that "crew members have even taken to placing bets on whether David will be sacked or quit the hit ITV talent show".
An insider told the Daily Star: "It's a tense atmosphere and it looks as if David has had enough.
"The crew are placing bets and it's all a bit of fun but behind closed doors it's very serious."
David Walliams has appeared on BGT since 2012
Simon Cowell at BGT auditions
David Walliams and former wife Lara Stone
However, speaking to Express.co.uk another show source insisted: "any suggestion of tensions with any of the panel is ridiculous."
The rumours emerged shortly after it was reported that Simon left the former Little Britain star - who has appeared on the show since 2012 - in shock with an inappropriate joke.
The media mogul is said to have taken things a step too far when he referenced David's divorce from model Lara Stone in front of a live BGT audience.
During a round of auditions, Simon asked one of the contestants: "Why aren't you married?"
The 44-year-old then hit back, asking Simon why he hadn't tied the knot with girlfriend Lauren Silverman.
Amanda Holden at BGT auditions
Alesha Dixon at BGT auditions
Diversity, Susan Boyle and Paul Potts Took a Chance - Britain's Got Talent 2015
However, never one to be outdone, Simon then responded, according to The Sun: "Well, why aren't you married"?
"David was pretty shocked that his marriage was mentioned," an audience member has since told the publication. "You could tell Simon knew straight away that he had put his foot in it.
"David was a little caught out by the comment. While they were waiting for the next act to come out, he went to talk to Simon. He sat on the desk next to him and they had a few words with each other and seemed to sort it out."
A spokesperson for the show later told Express.co.uk: "There are always off the cuff remarks between the judges during auditions and David was not angry or annoyed by Simon's comments."