MasterChef future confirmed by BBC after Gregg Wallace and John Torode sacked over ‘inappropriate' behaviour

The Sun

12 hours ago

THE BBC has controversially decided it will broadcast the last MasterChef series hosted by sacked hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode.
The broadcaster confirmed the decision after The Sun revealed it could face being sued by up to 60 contestants on the show if the series was shelved for good.
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Many participants were left out of pocket after taking breaks from their jobs and businesses or quitting work altogether to take part.
It was shot last year with Wallace and co-host John Torode, 59, but delayed amid the allegations against Gregg.
The statement comes as presenters Greg and John were sacked over allegations of inappropriate and racist language.
John confirmed he was the subject of an allegation of using racist language that was upheld as part of a review carried out by law firm into the alleged behaviour of Gregg.
He said he had "no recollection of the incident" and was "shocked and saddened" by the allegation.
A BBC spokesperson said: "After careful consideration and consultation with the contestants, we have decided to broadcast the amateur series of MasterChef on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 6 August.
"MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the amateur chefs taking part.
"The focus of it has always been their skill and their journey.
'This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it.
"In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters.
"We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC.
'However, we believe that broadcasting this series is the right thing to do for these cooks who have given so much to the process.
"We want them to be properly recognised and give the audience the choice to watch the series.
'At this stage we have not taken a decision on the celebrity series and Christmas special, which was filmed earlier this year, and we will confirm our plans later in the year.
'Most importantly MasterChef is a brilliant, much-loved programme which is bigger than any one individual.
"There are many talented, dedicated and hard-working people who make the show what it is.
"It will continue to flourish on the BBC and we look forward to it returning stronger than ever in the future."
Torode began presenting the BBC cooking contest alongside Gregg Wallace in 2005.