Gogglebox star front-runner to take over from John Torode on MasterChef after BBC sacking
A beloved Gogglebox personality has emerged as the leading contender to replace John Torode on MasterChef following his dismissal from the programme.
In a shocking turn of events, the BBC confirmed yesterday that they would not be renewing the 59-year-old's contract after an historic allegation of racism – which the Australian chef vehemently denies and claims to have no recollection of – was substantiated by an independent investigation into John's co-host, Gregg Wallace.
This revelation followed the termination of Gregg, 60, from MasterChef in light of the inquiry into his conduct. The report, carried out by legal firm Lewis Silkin, found that 45 out of 83 accusations levelled against the father-of-three were corroborated, primarily involving inappropriate sexual language and humour.
In the aftermath of Gregg and John's departure, Andi Oliver, star of Gogglebox and Great British Menu, has surfaced as the likely successor to host MasterChef.
According to Whataretheodds.co.uk, Andi is currently the favourite with odds at 5/2 (28.6 per cent). Renowned for her vibrant persona and authority on Great British Menu, Andi's culinary prowess has positioned her as a top pick among fans and bookies alike.
Her appointment would also mark a historic moment as the first Black woman to present the show, reports the Mirror.
The betting markets have responded swiftly to John and Gregg's exit from MasterChef, with odds analyst, Dave James, informing the Mirror that a well-known celebrity chef is also vying for the position.
He commented: "Andi Oliver remains the market leader, but Tom Kerridge is attracting a lot of support. His profile is huge, and he's one of the most trusted names in British food.
"This could come down to what direction the BBC wants – prestige, relatability, or a bit of both."
Tom, who has odds of 3/1 (25 per cent), runs several eateries, presents numerous BBC programmes, and is known for blending haute cuisine with broad appeal - not to mention being the creator of the £37 fish and chips at Harrod's.
Next in line is Poppy O'Toole, an emerging sensation on TikTok and within contemporary food media, with odds of 4/1 (20 per cent), followed by Angela Hartnett at 5/1 (16.7 per cent).
Great British Bake Off favourite Nadiya Hussain is at 6/1 (14.3 per cent).
Further back in the betting are television regulars such as James Martin and Grace Dent, who took over presenting duties on Celebrity MasterChef alongside John when Gregg temporarily stepped aside amid an investigation into his conduct on the programme.
In the meantime, Nigella Lawson, Marcus Wareing, and even John's spouse, Lisa Faulkner, remain contenders for the future face of MasterChef as the show's fate hangs in the balance.
Another prominent figure tipped to take over the iconic BBC series is Saturday Kitchen's Matt Tebbutt. There's speculation that the experienced presenter has already secured the role for MasterChef: The Professionals.
Matt played it cool regarding the prospect of presenting MasterChef after Gregg's departure earlier this year.
Speaking to Muddy Stilettos about potentially co-hosting with John while he was still employed on the show, he remarked: "Well, there's always rumours, but it would be a great gig for sure!"
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