Gregg Wallace Steps Down Amid Historical Misconduct Claims
Celebrity chef Gregg Wallace, the familiar face of MasterChef for nearly two decades, has stepped away from the hit BBC cooking show following historic misconduct allegations. The production giant Banijay UK has launched an independent investigation to get to the bottom of the complaints.
Wallace Hits Back At Allegations
On December 1, Wallace took to Instagram to respond to the serious claims. He suggested the complaints came from “middle-class women of a certain age” linked only to Celebrity MasterChef.
“I’ve worked with over 4,000 contestants from all walks of life during my 20 years on MasterChef. Now I’m reading in the paper about 13 complaints over that time. The complaints are reportedly coming from a handful of middle-class women of a certain age, just from Celebrity MasterChef. This isn’t right.”
Wallace also questioned double standards, pointing out that female contestants have made sexual remarks on the show over the years without similar scrutiny.
Banijay UK Launches External Review
Banijay UK, which produces the show, confirmed it had received complaints through the BBC and is conducting a thorough, independent review.
“Whilst these complainants have not raised the allegations directly with our show producers or parent company Banijay UK, we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate,” said a company spokesperson.
The company stressed strict behavioural standards and multiple anonymous reporting channels available for cast and crew.
BBC Stands Firm on Zero Tolerance
A BBC spokesman reaffirmed the broadcaster’s commitment to maintaining high standards on its shows.
“We are always clear that any behaviour which falls below the standards expected by the BBC will not be tolerated. Where an individual is contracted directly by an external production company, we share any complaints or concerns with that company and will always support them when addressing them.”
What’s Next for Gregg and MasterChef?
Gregg Wallace’s exit shakes up MasterChef, where he has co-presented alongside John Torode since 2005. The franchise, including spin-offs like Celebrity MasterChef and MasterChef: The Professionals, remains a flagship of the BBC’s cooking lineup.
Banijay UK has urged anyone with info to come forward confidentially at [email protected]. Wallace promises full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. Both the BBC and Banijay are committed to handling the matter with impartiality and will provide updates as the inquiry unfolds.
