Gregg Wallace, the well-known host of the BBC's MasterChef, has stepped aside as producers investigate historical allegations of misconduct involving inappropriate sexual comments. Wallace has hosted the beloved cooking competition alongside John Torode since 2005, and his departure raises several serious concerns surrounding behavior within the show's production environment.
The production company behind MasterChef, Banijay UK, confirmed the decision to launch an external review following complaints lodged with the BBC this week. These allegations brought to light accusations from 13 individuals, claiming Wallace made inappropriate remarks across several shows over the past 17 years. Among the complainants is Kirsty Wark, former host of Newsnight and contestant on Celebrity MasterChef. Wark alleged Wallace directed jokes of "sexualized nature" during filming, which both she and other crew members found uncomfortable.
Wark recounted her experience on Celebrity MasterChef, remembering instances where Wallace made such remarks and jokes. "The fly in the ointment, on occasion, was Gregg Wallace. I think people were uncomfortable. We were basically a captive audience," Wark said, expressing her frustration over the nature of Wallace's comments. Her candid comments underline concerns over power dynamics and appropriateness within the workplace, particularly around how attendees would respond to jokes they felt were inappropriate. "People looked embarrassed and just got on with their work. I was actually more angry than anything else, because I thought it was so inappropriate," she added.
Responding to the claims, Wallace's legal team has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting he never engaged in any conduct resembling sexual harassment. His representatives declined to comment beyond Banijay UK’s statement. The company emphasized their commitment to conduct thorough investigations whenever concerns about behavior arise: "While these are historical allegations, incidents brought to our attention where these expectations are not met are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately."
This isn't the first time Wallace has faced scrutiny over his behavior. Previous incidents have also emerged which suggest he may have said or done things at work leading to discomfort among colleagues, dating back to filming for Impossible Celebrities where he allegedly made inappropriate comments. Last year, he left Inside the Factory after facing accusations over remarks considered inappropriate by female staff.
One significant allegation reported by BBC News involved Wallace’s supposed disclosure of personal sexual information, including claims he recounted his sex life to colleagues and made comments concerning his undergarments to junior staff members. These activities have raised significant concerns not only due to the nature of the comments but also the potential consequences for workplace culture and the well-being of his co-workers.
Banijay UK underscored their commitment to ensuring staff welfare within their productions, stating, "Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always prioritized and our expectations of behavior are clear to both cast and crew on all productions, with numerous options provided for raising concerns, including anonymously, which are clearly promoted on set."
Following the allegations, Wallace posted on social media to express appreciation for the support he received from fans. "I would like to thank all the people getting in touch, reaching out, and showing their support. That’s good of you, thank you very much," he stated.
The scrutiny surrounding Wallace coincides with other serious allegations faced by BBC personalities this year. Jermaine Jenas, who presented The One Show, was dismissed after allegedly sending inappropriate messages to co-workers, and another BBC presenter, Huw Edwards, was found guilty of accessing child abuse imagery.
Despite the controversy, the current season of MasterChef: The Professionals will continue to air as scheduled, with episodes featuring Wallace already filmed. The investigation's outcomes, alongside adjustments the production considers necessary, remain to be seen. Banijay UK stated: "We feel it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate... While this review is underway, Wallace will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef and is committed to fully cooperating throughout the process." The BBC, for its part, has reiterated its intolerance of any behavior falling below expected standards and shared its commitment to addressing concerns within both direct employees and those contracted via third-party production companies.
Overall, the allegations against Wallace reflect broader issues within industries where power dynamics can create uncomfortable or inappropriate environments, leading to necessary discussions about workplace conduct and accountability. Wallace’s experience serves as yet another reminder of the importance of fostering safety and respect within workspaces, and the fallout following the current investigation may prove pivotal for his future as well as the operational framework of MasterChef and its related productions.