MasterChef Airs Amid Host Sacking Scandal
Cooks Shine as Allegations Against Gregg Wallace and John Torode Cast Shadow
The latest season of MasterChef has premiered on television, featuring its previously dismissed co-hosts, Gregg Wallace and John Torode, despite a recent report upholding misconduct allegations against them. The BBC’s decision to broadcast the series, filmed last year, cites a commitment to the participating chefs.
Broadcast Decision Sparks Controversy
The broadcast union Bectu has voiced criticism, arguing that “bad behaviour should not be rewarded with prime-time coverage.” Concerns have also been raised by one of the show’s contestants, Sarah Shafi, who was reportedly edited out after requesting the series not be aired. She told BBC Newsnight that the show’s continuation felt like “a blatant disregard for the people who have come forward.”
Several women who made complaints against Gregg Wallace have expressed their disappointment, with one stating they did not believe the show should be broadcast. A leading women’s rights charity warned that many viewers would feel “deeply uncomfortable” seeing the series on screen.
Hosts’ Presence Altered in New Season
While Wallace and Torode appear throughout the initial episodes, the dynamic has shifted. There are noticeably fewer jokes and less casual interaction between the presenters and the contestants compared to previous seasons. Experts suggest this reflects limitations in editing out the hosts entirely, with the focus intentionally placed on the chefs’ culinary journeys.
The BBC defended its decision, stating it was “the right thing to do” for the chefs involved. They emphasized that airing the series “in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters.” The broadcaster also noted “widespread support” from the cooks for the show to proceed, giving audiences the choice to watch.
History of Allegations
The controversy surrounding the MasterChef hosts began last year when allegations of misconduct against Gregg Wallace first surfaced. A report by the production company Banijay revealed over 40 upheld complaints against him, including those of unwelcome physical contact. Wallace has maintained he was cleared of the most serious accusations.
The upheld complaint against John Torode involved the alleged use of a severely offensive racist term on the MasterChef set in 2018. Torode has stated he has no recollection of the incident and that any such language is “wholly unacceptable.”
This year’s series commenced later than usual, with its August start potentially impacting viewership figures compared to previous April launches. The show will air three days a week leading up to the finals.
The BBC’s decision to proceed with the series comes as other broadcasters are increasingly scrutinizing on-screen talent following misconduct allegations. For example, in 2023, the BBC itself addressed concerns about presenter behaviour by reviewing its own talent guidelines and implementing stricter measures to ensure a safe working environment for all involved in productions.
