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Gregg Wallace has been sensationally sacked from MasterChef following a nine-month investigation into alleged sexual misconduct, with fresh claims from more than 50 people coming to light, according to reports.
The 59-year-old TV presenter, who has been a familiar face on the BBC’s flagship cooking competition since 2005, has strenuously denied the allegations and has publicly condemned the BBC’s handling of the investigation.
It’s understood the broadcaster received dozens of complaints, including allegations that Wallace exposed himself in front of a member of the MasterChef production team and groped another colleague. Eleven women are said to have made specific claims of inappropriate sexual behaviour.
The probe, conducted by an independent law firm on behalf of MasterChef’s production company Banijay, is said to be concluding imminently, with an executive summary of findings expected to be published soon.
Wallace, however, took to Instagram to launch a scathing attack on both the BBC and the investigation process, claiming he has already been cleared of “the most serious and sensational accusations” but is being made the scapegoat.
In his post, Wallace said: “I cannot sit in silence while my reputation is further damaged to protect others. I will not go quietly.”
He also criticised the decision not to publish the full 200-page report into the matter, accusing the corporation of shielding others who he claims were also implicated.
"What really concerns me about the short summary is others who have been found guilty of serious allegations have been erased from the published version of events. I, and I'm sure the public, would like to know why?" he wrote.
The BBC has not commented further, beyond confirming that Wallace will not appear in the next series of MasterChef, which is due to begin filming later this summer.
Wallace hosted Masterchef alongside John Torode (left) – Credit: PA Media
Fans and colleagues of the long-running show have been left shocked and divided by the developments, with some praising Wallace for speaking out, while others call for full transparency from the BBC and Banijay.
Wallace, who first found fame alongside John Torode as the duo behind one of the UK’s most popular food shows, insists he has no intention of walking away quietly, promising to continue fighting to clear his name.
