BBC Tells Gregg Wallace a Return to ‘MasterChef’ Is “Untenable” After Report Upholds 45 Allegations

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The BBC has ended its association with MasterChef celebrity, Gregg Wallace, following the validation of 45 accusations made against him in an independent investigation.

Just last week, The Hollywood Reporter shared news about over 50 individuals making new accusations against a 60-year-old individual, mainly focusing on allegations such as unwanted touching and exposing himself to colleagues. Notably, this person had previously withdrawn from a cooking series in November following earlier claims of inappropriate conduct by former coworkers.

After the BBC report where several women shared their stories about Wallace, the production company Banijay decided to initiate a probe led by an independent law firm, in response to these allegations.

As a dedicated fan, I must express my shock and dismay upon learning about the findings of the report concerning Wallace, who vehemently denies any wrongdoing. The report reveals a staggering 83 accusations directed at the host of MasterChef, with the majority pertaining to inappropriate sexual banter and humor, as well as culturally insensitive and racially charged comments. A thorough investigation led to more than half (45) of these allegations being substantiated.

Wallace is often characterized as lively, witty, and capable of making contestants feel relaxed, which likely played a role in the show’s popularity. However, some exchanges and remarks during filming occasionally caused discomfort or offense to those involved.

Prior to the publication of the report, the celebrity had adamantly claimed it vindicated him from “the gravest and scandalous accusations.” However, he faced more criticism recently for implying that his autism might have been the cause of his actions. The report disclosed on Monday indicates that while it’s important to consider Wallace’s neurodiversity when interpreting its findings, he does not want to use it as a shield. Instead, he has made clear that he doesn’t intend to hide behind his diagnosis.

Wallace’s Instagram post on Tuesday, which was quite extensive, stated: “For more than two decades, no one bothered to look into my disability or safeguard me from a potentially harmful situation… I refuse to leave without a fight. I won’t be silenced for the sake of convenience. The media had already judged and condemned me before the facts were clear.

Several individuals who conversed with BBC News, numbering more than 50, additionally provided information to the Banijay investigation. They recounted occurrences that transpired not only on various shows hosted by Wallace but also in places such as nightclubs and awards ceremonies. At the time of request for comment from THR, a representative for Wallace did not respond promptly.

The disclosures span a 19-year timespan. A spokesperson for BBC informed THR on Monday that the network accepts the release of these findings and in accordance with Banijay U.K., considers Jeremy Wallace’s return to MasterChef as “inconvenient.

The BBC communicated that they do not intend to collaborate with Mr. Wallace in the future, as his conduct does not align with the principles and standards that the BBC upholds for its associates.

The broadcaster acknowledges that chances to correct Mr. Wallace’s misconduct were overlooked, not just by the production teams behind MasterChef, but also by the BBC. “We understand that more action should have been taken promptly. We express our sincere apologies to everyone who has been affected by Mr. Wallace’s behavior.

Regarding allegations concerning two other individuals mentioned alongside Wallace in the report, the BBC stated that they view these claims gravely and have instructed Banijay U.K. to rectify these matters promptly. This resolution process is already underway and will be given top priority.

Patrick Holland, as head of Banijay U.K., expressed his thoughts about the Lewis Silkin report: “Although it’s tough to digest, pointing out flaws in past reporting and HR practices, it also offers useful guidance so that in the future, everyone involved in our productions feels secure and valued.

He expressed deep apologies to everyone affected by such behavior, acknowledging that some might have felt uncomfortable speaking out initially or believed their concerns weren’t properly addressed.

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2025-07-14 13:54