BBC address MasterChef future after exits of John Torode and Gregg Wallace
BBC director-general Tim Davie believes MasterChef “absolutely” has a future in the UK, despite the sudden exits of long-term presenting duo John Torode and Gregg Wallace.
Australia-born chef John and former greengrocer Gregg have fronted the show since its relaunch in 2005.
But neither will continue in their roles, with their contracts not being renewed.
Following a series of complaints and a report by independent law firm Lewis Silkin, commissioned by production company Banijay, it was decided to let both Gregg and John go, due to issues around conduct.
In total, 45 allegations about Gregg’s behaviour were upheld, including one of unwelcome physical contact and another three of being in a state of undress.
Meanwhile, an allegation John had used “an extremely offensive racist term” was also upheld.
John issued a statement via Instagram, which included: “Although I haven’t heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay, I am seeing and reading that I’ve been ‘sacked’ from MasterChef.
“I have no recollection of what I’m accused of.
“Celebrity MasterChef, which I recently filmed with Grace Dent, along with two fantastic Christmas specials, will be my last.
“Personally, I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else. For whoever takes over, love it as I have.”
Meanwhile, Gregg said in a statement to the PA News Agency that he was “deeply sorry for any distress” and “never set out to harm or humiliate”.
Discussing the future of the show, with the current production deal running until 2028, BBC director-general Tim Davie said: "I absolutely think it does, I think a great programme that's loved by audiences is much bigger than individuals.
"It absolutely can survive and prosper, but we've got to make sure we're in the right place in terms of the culture of the show."
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