BBC ‘MasterChef’ Host Gregg Wallace Steps Aside As Producers Launch Investigation Into Historical Misconduct Allegations
Gregg Wallace has stepped aside as the host of BBC MasterChef amid an investigation into historical allegations of misconduct.
In a statement, MasterChef producer Banijay UK said it was launching the external review after complaints were made to the BBC this week about Wallace’s behavior.
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BBC News has published allegations Wallace made “inappropriate sexual comments” on five shows across a 17-year period. One of 13 people who made the allegations included Kirsty Wark, the former BBC Newsnight presenter who was a Celebrity MasterChef contestant in 2011.
Wark said Wallace told stories and made jokes of a “sexualized nature” on at least two occasions in front of colleagues and contestants. “People were uncomfortable,” she said.
In a letter to BBC News, Wallace’s lawyers denied he engaged in behavior of a “sexually harassing nature.” His spokesperson declined to comment beyond the Banijay UK statement.
“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,” Banijay UK said.
“While this review is underway, Gregg Wallace will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef and is committed to fully cooperating throughout the process.”
Banijay and the BBC did not comment on the specific nature of the allegations, but it is not the first time he has been accused of wrongdoing.
Last month, he denied saying “anything sexual” while filming game show Impossible Celebrities in 2018. Last year, The Times of London reported that Wallace quit BBC series Inside the Factory after making comments considered to be inappropriate by female staff.
Banijay said: “Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always a priority and our expectations regarding behaviour are made clear to both cast and crew on all productions, with multiple ways of raising concerns, including anonymously, clearly promoted on set.
“Whilst these are historical allegations, incidences brought to our attention where these expectations are not met, are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately.”
Wallace, 60, is the latest BBC male star to face allegations of misconduct in recent months. The One Show presenter Jermaine Jenas was fired by the corporation for allegedly sending inappropriate messages to colleagues, while Strictly Come Dancing professional Graziano Di Prima was removed after admitting to kicking partner Zara McDermott during rehearsals. Also this year, BBC News anchor Huw Edwards pleaded guilty to accessing child abuse images.
Wallace has hosted MasterChef in the UK for nearly 20 years and continually tests well with BBC audiences. He was a Strictly Come Dancing contestant in 2014 and has also hosted shows including Eat Well For Less and Supermarket Secrets.
MasterChef: The Professionals is currently airing on BBC1 and the series is expected to continue as normal.
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