BBC Masterchef host, Gregg Wallace, is facing new accusations as he steps away from his hosting duties on the popular cooking show MasterChef. The move comes as a review is being conducted into complaints received by the BBC regarding “historical allegations of misconduct” while working with Wallace. Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef, confirmed the receipt of complaints and stated that Wallace is fully cooperating with the investigation process.
Following the initial complaints, more allegations surfaced in news outlets such as The Sun, prompting Banijay UK to appoint the law firm Lewis Silkin to lead an investigation into Wallace’s alleged behaviour. The production company emphasised the firm’s expertise in conducting thorough and impartial investigations, ensuring confidentiality for those providing evidence. These developments unfolded after the charity Ambitious About Autism dropped Wallace as an ambassador in light of the “recent allegations”.
BBC News disclosed that Wallace, a longstanding presenter on MasterChef, is facing allegations from multiple individuals spanning a 17-year period across various shows. Notable figures like former Newsnight host Kirsty Wark are among those who have come forward with complaints. Wallace’s legal team has vehemently denied any claims of engaging in sexually harassing behaviour, as reported by BBC News. The BBC reiterated its commitment to upholding expected standards and stated that any misconduct will not be tolerated.
In response to the allegations concerning Wallace’s behaviour on another show, Gregg Wallace’s Big Weekends, Channel 5 requested the programme’s production company, Rumpus Media, to investigate the accusations. Rumpus Media affirmed its zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour on its productions and assured adherence to duty of care processes. Banijay UK encouraged individuals with further concerns to reach out to the investigation team via atbanijayinvestigation@lewissilkin.com.
As the investigation unfolds, Wallace has expressed gratitude towards his supporters in an Instagram video, acknowledging the outpouring of support amidst the controversy. The unfolding events have sparked a discussion surrounding workplace conduct and the importance of addressing complaints and ensuring a safe and respectful environment in all settings. With more information emerging and investigations ongoing, the future of Gregg Wallace’s involvement in MasterChef remains uncertain, pending the outcome of the review process.
The developments surrounding Gregg Wallace’s accusations have reignited conversations about accountability and the handling of misconduct allegations in the entertainment industry. The commitment to conducting thorough investigations and prioritising the well-being of all involved parties underscores the significance of addressing such issues promptly and transparently. The impact of these accusations extends beyond the realm of television, underscoring the broader conversation on workplace culture and the shared responsibility to uphold standards of professionalism and respect in all professional interactions.
In light of the recent events, the entertainment industry faces a moment of reflection and reckoning, emphasising the need for robust protocols to address complaints and ensure accountability. The ongoing investigations will shed further light on the allegations against Gregg Wallace and serve as a reminder of the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals in the workplace. As the situation unfolds, stakeholders continue to monitor developments and advocate for a comprehensive and fair resolution to the allegations raised against the prominent TV presenter.