BBC Declares Gregg Wallace Hosting ‘Untenable’ Amid Misconduct Claims
Brace yourself for another round of prime-time upheaval featuring a well-known cooking show figure. The BBC has officially described it as “untenable” for Gregg Wallace to continue hosting MasterChef after a recent sexual misconduct report surfaced, marking one of the most significant shake-ups in the show’s history. According to both the BBC and the New York Post, the broadcaster was notified weeks ago about an allegation dating back to the late 1990s involving a female production assistant. Though no formal complaint was filed at the time, internal sources confirm the matter was escalated once the report reached senior BBC executives.
Public records show Wallace, who has co-hosted MasterChef since 2005 alongside John Torode, was suspended from on-air duties last month pending an internal review. In a concise statement to the BBC Board, the director general described the situation as irreconcilable with Wallace’s continued presence on the flagship culinary competition. The broadcaster emphasized it is bound by stringent safeguarding policies and must maintain public trust, especially in today’s heightened environment around workplace behavior.
Wallace, a former greengrocer turned television personality, has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. His legal team issued a rebuttal urging journalists to treat the allegation with caution until the facts are established. “Mr. Wallace has always conducted himself professionally,” the statement read, adding that he looks forward to a “transparent and fair process.” Despite that, insider commentary suggests the BBC felt compelled to take decisive action as social media chatter intensified, with hashtags demanding accountability trending on Twitter.
The BBC’s decision follows similar actions by other networks in recent years when hosts faced allegations of misconduct. Viewers of MasterChef can expect upcoming episodes to proceed without Wallace’s trademark commentary and natural-food quips. Guest hosts are reportedly being lined up to fill the gap, and producers are said to be exploring a variety of formats to maintain momentum. Meanwhile, John Torode has remained conspicuously silent, focused on his judging duties while production continues.
Industry analysts note that MasterChef’s ratings have remained robust over the years, but the controversy could reshape the show’s dynamic and long-term appeal. Sponsorship deals for the latest season reportedly buckled under the weight of uncertainty before the BBC’s announcement, leaving advertisers cautious. The network is now balancing its reputation for family-friendly entertainment with the need to demonstrate zero tolerance for misconduct.
Whether Gregg Wallace will return to television screens or face a permanent exit hinges on the outcome of the internal investigation, which is expected to wrap up in the coming weeks. In the meantime, cookery fans and tabloid readers alike will be watching closely. Stay tuned; the next episode in this real-life cooking drama promises fresh revelations.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and New York Post, BBC
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
