Latest news with #PatrickHolland
CNET
2 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Get a $200 Gift Card and Double the Storage When You Preorder the Hot New Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 7 From Amazon Right Now
Android users and fans of the Samsung Galaxy phone lineup are eagerly awaiting the July 25 release date of the latest foldable in Samsung's lineup, the Galaxy Z Flip 7. With an announced retail price of $1,220 for the 512 GB variant, it's not exactly the cheapest phone out there. But the great news is, you can get one for less thanks to some intriguing preorder offers. Right now, Amazon is currently offering a trifecta of savings: pick up the Galaxy Z Flip 7 for $120 off, plus get a $200 Amazon gift card and double the storage on the phone. That means you get this entire bundle for $1,100. Combine the bundle for a value of $1,420 and you save $320. Be be quick -- this offer expires July 24. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 offers a 4.1-inch cover screen and 6.9-inch inner screen, both which run at 120Hz, offering a clear picture quality no matter how you view the phone. The FlexWindow, which is the cover display, supports Gemini, including Gemini Live. It also boasts a 4,300-mAh battery for all day performance. The Flip 7 comes in three colors: blue shadow, jet black and coral red. Note that Samsung is also offering a fourth color, mint, on its website, but that is not part of the Amazon offer. The redesigned Z Flip 7 is thinner than its predecessor, the Z Flip 6 but, as reviewer Patrick Holland describes, is sturdier than ever. He writes, "After less than six hours with the Galaxy Z Flip 7, I accidentally performed my own informal drop test. At a catered affair in Brooklyn, I walked outside to get a view of the waterfront, and when I pulled the Z Flip 7 out of my pocket, I fumbled it. I watched helplessly as Samsung's newest foldable phone fell to the ground." A cringe moment for sure, but the outcome? The phone was perfectly fine. No scratches, no damage. As Holland notes, "Samsung's claim that its new 'Armour Flex Hinge' is built to withstand impact is indeed true." Why this deal matters In a comparable deal, we've seen that Samsung preorders for the Galaxy Z Flip 7 currently include a $120 discount on the phone as well, bringing it down to $1,100 for the 512 GB model, so it also includes the free storage upgrade. While you do have the potential for trade-in with Samsung, if you aren't seeking to trade in an older phone, the Amazon offer beats Samsung by throwing in the $200 Amazon gift card which you can then use for anything you want. Since Amazon has everything from groceries to phone cases, it's a versatile option for a lower price. Overall this bundle nets you the phone, extra storage and some spending money for the same price as the Samsung offer.
Daily Mail
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
BREAKING NEWS Gregg Wallace says he 'never set out to harm or humiliate' anyone as he apologises over 45 upheld complaints into his behaviour - as colleagues set for probe over other incidents on set
Gregg Wallace said he 'never set out to harm or humiliate' and was 'deeply sorry for any distress' his behaviour caused after the BBC this morning admitted it 'could and should have' acted sooner on the MasterChef host. The report into the disgraced star's behaviour on the cooking show upheld 45 out of 83 complaints, including one count of 'unwanted physical contact'. Patrick Holland, CEO of MasterChef production company Banijay, said he was 'extremely sorry' to those who had been impacted by Wallace's behaviour and added that the report makes the star's 'return to MasterChef untenable'. The BBC said the investigation into a 'substantial number of allegations of inappropriate conduct' over 19 years highlighted behaviour that falls below the corporation's values. 'Although the full extent of these issues were not known at the relevant time, opportunities were missed to address this behaviour – both by the production companies running MasterChef and the BBC,' a spokesman added. 'We accept more could and should have been done sooner.' The corporation would not confirm whether they will broadcast the series of MasterChef they filmed with him last Autumn. The seven-month investigation, conducted by law firm Lewis Silkin, heard 83 allegations from 41 complainants against Wallace, all relating to his time on the cookery programme. It also found that 10 standalone allegations were made against 'other people', from 2012 to 2019, with two claims, relating to swearing and racist language being upheld. The majority of the allegations against Mr Wallace (94%) related to behaviour which is said to have occurred between 2005 and 2018. Only one allegation was substantiated post 2018. The majority of substantiated allegations related to inappropriate sexual language and humour. A smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language and being in a state of undress were also substantiated. One allegation of unwanted physical contact was substantiated. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said the allegations against Gregg Wallace were 'horrendous and appalling', and she welcomed the BBC's decision to end its association with the MasterChef presenter. The investigation team found evidence that during the period from 2005 to 2024, six complaints were raised with the production company and 6 with the BBC (four of which had also been raised with the production company). However, the investigator found that 'there was a tendency to address the concern informally on a case-by-case basis and not therefore consider each issue as additive to any prior allegations or to matters which had been observed by senior members of staff'. More formal action was taken by the production company in 2015 and the BBC in 2017. Wallace was diagnosed with autism during the time of the investigation and the report found that this was 'highly relevant' in the context of the findings. They said: 'Mr Wallace's neurodiversity diagnosis is considered highly relevant in the context of the findings made, particularly regarding his use of humour as a 'masking' technique and his difficulty in reading social cues. 'Mr Wallace accepts that his diagnosis may help to explain some of his actions, but he does not wish to hide behind it.' The categories of allegations were separated in seven categories which included inappropriate comments (jokes and innuendo), sexually explicit comments, being in a state of undress, sexualised comments made to or about someone, culturally insensitive / racist comments, bullying, unwanted physical contact. The majority of the substantiated allegations against Mr Wallace related to inappropriate sexual language and humour, however, a smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language, being in a state of undress and unwelcome physical contact were also substantiated. Out of the 45 upheld complaints, 27 occurred between 2005 to 2011, 17 from 2012 to 2018 and just one from 2019 to 2024. Overall, the report concluded that 16 sexually explicit comments, 12 inappropriate comments, two sexualised comments to or about someone and four culturally insensitive/racist comments were made. One incident of unwelcome physical contact and three incidents of being in a state of undress were also substantiated. While, seven cases of bullying were upheld. Prior to 2016, the investigation found that there was little or no formal training or clear escalation procedures in place, leading to underreporting of inappropriate behaviour. It also added that concerns were not always flagged to Wallace meaning he was 'not necessarily aware that his behaviour had caused offence'. The report found that many contestants felt unable to speak out on MasterChef because 'their desire to do well in the competition, meant that they were unlikely to complain or allow their reactions to show.' Karen Baxter, the head of investigations at Lewis Silkin, who conducted the report did find that after the BBC warned Wallace about his behaviour in 2017 that he did change his behaviour. She said: 'There is evidence which shows that Mr Wallace took some proactive steps to modify his behaviour, seek guidance from colleagues on his choice of language, and to remove himself from work-related social situations.' Patrick Holland, CEO Banijay UK said: 'In earlier years, specifically prior to 2016 where the vast majority of these issues arose, it is clear that escalation procedures were not as robust as they should have been, and awareness of policies and procedures were lacking particularly amongst freelance staff. ' A spokesman for the BBC said: 'We welcome the publication of the findings by Lewis Silkin, following the investigation into the conduct of Gregg Wallace. 'In light of these findings, Banijay UK and the BBC have agreed Mr Wallace's return to MasterChef is untenable. The BBC has informed Mr Wallace we have no plans to work with him in future. 'The investigation details a substantial number of allegations of inappropriate conduct spanning 19 years. This behaviour falls below the values of the BBC and the expectations we have for anyone who works with or for us. 'Although the full extent of these issues were not known at the relevant time, opportunities were missed to address this behaviour – both by the production companies running MasterChef and the BBC. We accept more could and should have been done sooner. 'We want to thank all those who took part in the investigation, including those who first raised concerns directly with the BBC in November last year. We apologise to everyone who has been impacted by Mr Wallace's behaviour. 'Lewis Silkin's findings include two further allegations which were upheld, relating to other individuals. The BBC takes these findings very seriously and we have asked Banijay UK to take action to address these issues, which is underway. This will be completed as a priority. 'The BBC will not be commenting further at this stage, but we are clear we expect the highest standards of respect at work to be upheld on the production. 'At this stage we are not going to make a final decision on the broadcast of the series that was filmed last year. We know this is disappointing for fans of the show and those who took part and at the appropriate time Banijay UK will consult further with the amateur contestants. 'In April the BBC published a detailed response to an independent review of workplace culture, which reinforces expectations around behaviour and that we will act more decisively when standards are not met. This also requires all TV production partners to align with the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) standards.
Rhyl Journal
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Rhyl Journal
‘Just over half' of allegations against Gregg Wallace substantiated, report says
In November 2024 the show's production company, Banijay UK, announced that Wallace would step away from his role on MasterChef while historical allegations of misconduct were investigated. The report, led by law firm Lewis Silkin, found that the 'majority of the allegations against Mr Wallace (94%) related to behaviour which is said to have occurred between 2005 and 2018', with only one allegation substantiated after 2018. It also concluded that the 'majority of the substantiated allegations against Mr Wallace related to inappropriate sexual language and humour', adding that 'a smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language and being in a state of undress were also substantiated', with 'one incident of unwelcome physical contact' also substantiated. The report noted that during the course of the investigation, which was over a seven-month period, Wallace was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and said that the findings should be viewed in the context of his neurodiversity. During the investigation, it was also found that '10 standalone allegations were made against other people, two of which were substantiated', relating to inappropriate language, one for swearing and the other for racist language. Wallace, 60, has been 'co-operative and forthcoming' and was interviewed three times by the investigations team, for a total of more than 14 hours of interview. But Banijay UK said that 'Wallace's return to MasterChef (is) untenable' following the number of sustained allegations. Patrick Holland, chief executive of Banijay UK, said that while the report 'makes for uncomfortable reading, highlighting failures in legacy reporting and HR procedures', it also provided 'valuable insight to ensure that going forward everyone working on our productions feels safe and supported, and that inappropriate behaviour is quickly and professionally dealt with'. Mr Holland added: 'In earlier years, specifically prior to 2016 where the vast majority of these issues arose, it is clear that escalation procedures were not as robust as they should have been, and awareness of policies and procedures were lacking particularly amongst freelance staff.' He said Wallace would not be returning to MasterChef, adding: 'We are extremely sorry to anyone who has been impacted by this behaviour and felt unable to speak up at the time or that their complaint was not adequately addressed. 'MasterChef is a much-loved show which, year in, year out, changes the lives and careers of contestants, amateur and professional alike. 'It's made by a brilliant team of outstanding professionals and we look forward to bringing more exceptional cooking to screens in the coming months and years.' The BBC also said it has 'informed' Wallace that it has 'no plans to work with him in future', adding in a statement: 'The investigation details a substantial number of allegations of inappropriate conduct spanning 19 years. 'This behaviour falls below the values of the BBC and the expectations we have for anyone who works with or for us. 'Although the full extent of these issues were not known at the relevant time, opportunities were missed to address this behaviour, both by the production companies running MasterChef and the BBC. We accept more could and should have been done sooner.' The BBC also addressed the future of a series of MasterChef filmed last year which has not yet been aired, saying they had not made a final decision on broadcasting it, adding: 'We know this is disappointing for fans of the show and those who took part, and at the appropriate time Banijay UK will consult further with the amateur contestants. Their statement added: 'We want to reaffirm, there is no place for the abuse of power, unacceptable behaviour or language at the BBC, or shows made for the BBC.' Last year a BBC News investigation revealed a string of allegations of inappropriate sexual comments and alleged inappropriate behaviour against Wallace by 13 people who worked with him across a range of shows over a 17-year period, including former Newsnight host Kirsty Wark. A statement from Wallace's lawyers at the time said that it 'is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature', as reported by BBC News. In December, Wallace claimed in an Instagram video that complaints about his behaviour came from 'a handful of middle-class women of a certain age'. After a backlash, he apologised for any 'offence' or 'upset' caused and said he would 'take some time out'. Ahead of the official publishing of the external review, Wallace claimed in an Instagram post on July 8 that he had been cleared of the 'most serious and sensational accusations' against him. He added that his neurodiversity had 'now formally (been) diagnosed as autism', saying in the social media post that it was 'suspected and discussed by colleagues across countless seasons of MasterChef'. His social media post and the report come as the TV presenter and former greengrocer faced claims from 50 or more people, as reported by BBC News last week, with the majority saying he made inappropriate sexual comments, and 11 women accused him of inappropriate sexual behaviour, such as groping and touching. Wallace was the original presenter of the BBC show Saturday Kitchen in 2002 and has also featured on Eat Well For Less?, Inside The Factory, Turn Back Time, Harvest and Supermarket Secrets. He was most known, however, for presenting MasterChef, MasterChef: The Professionals, and Celebrity MasterChef.
South Wales Guardian
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Guardian
‘Just over half' of allegations against Gregg Wallace substantiated, report says
In November 2024 the show's production company, Banijay UK, announced that Wallace would step away from his role on MasterChef while historical allegations of misconduct were investigated. The report, led by law firm Lewis Silkin, found that the 'majority of the allegations against Mr Wallace (94%) related to behaviour which is said to have occurred between 2005 and 2018', with only one allegation substantiated after 2018. It also concluded that the 'majority of the substantiated allegations against Mr Wallace related to inappropriate sexual language and humour', adding that 'a smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language and being in a state of undress were also substantiated', with 'one incident of unwelcome physical contact' also substantiated. The report noted that during the course of the investigation, which was over a seven-month period, Wallace was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and said that the findings should be viewed in the context of his neurodiversity. During the investigation, it was also found that '10 standalone allegations were made against other people, two of which were substantiated', relating to inappropriate language, one for swearing and the other for racist language. Wallace, 60, has been 'co-operative and forthcoming' and was interviewed three times by the investigations team, for a total of more than 14 hours of interview. But Banijay UK said that 'Wallace's return to MasterChef (is) untenable' following the number of sustained allegations. Patrick Holland, chief executive of Banijay UK, said that while the report 'makes for uncomfortable reading, highlighting failures in legacy reporting and HR procedures', it also provided 'valuable insight to ensure that going forward everyone working on our productions feels safe and supported, and that inappropriate behaviour is quickly and professionally dealt with'. Mr Holland added: 'In earlier years, specifically prior to 2016 where the vast majority of these issues arose, it is clear that escalation procedures were not as robust as they should have been, and awareness of policies and procedures were lacking particularly amongst freelance staff.' He said Wallace would not be returning to MasterChef, adding: 'We are extremely sorry to anyone who has been impacted by this behaviour and felt unable to speak up at the time or that their complaint was not adequately addressed. 'MasterChef is a much-loved show which, year in, year out, changes the lives and careers of contestants, amateur and professional alike. 'It's made by a brilliant team of outstanding professionals and we look forward to bringing more exceptional cooking to screens in the coming months and years.' The BBC also said it has 'informed' Wallace that it has 'no plans to work with him in future', adding in a statement: 'The investigation details a substantial number of allegations of inappropriate conduct spanning 19 years. 'This behaviour falls below the values of the BBC and the expectations we have for anyone who works with or for us. 'Although the full extent of these issues were not known at the relevant time, opportunities were missed to address this behaviour, both by the production companies running MasterChef and the BBC. We accept more could and should have been done sooner.' The BBC also addressed the future of a series of MasterChef filmed last year which has not yet been aired, saying they had not made a final decision on broadcasting it, adding: 'We know this is disappointing for fans of the show and those who took part, and at the appropriate time Banijay UK will consult further with the amateur contestants. Their statement added: 'We want to reaffirm, there is no place for the abuse of power, unacceptable behaviour or language at the BBC, or shows made for the BBC.' Last year a BBC News investigation revealed a string of allegations of inappropriate sexual comments and alleged inappropriate behaviour against Wallace by 13 people who worked with him across a range of shows over a 17-year period, including former Newsnight host Kirsty Wark. A statement from Wallace's lawyers at the time said that it 'is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature', as reported by BBC News. In December, Wallace claimed in an Instagram video that complaints about his behaviour came from 'a handful of middle-class women of a certain age'. After a backlash, he apologised for any 'offence' or 'upset' caused and said he would 'take some time out'. Ahead of the official publishing of the external review, Wallace claimed in an Instagram post on July 8 that he had been cleared of the 'most serious and sensational accusations' against him. He added that his neurodiversity had 'now formally (been) diagnosed as autism', saying in the social media post that it was 'suspected and discussed by colleagues across countless seasons of MasterChef'. His social media post and the report come as the TV presenter and former greengrocer faced claims from 50 or more people, as reported by BBC News last week, with the majority saying he made inappropriate sexual comments, and 11 women accused him of inappropriate sexual behaviour, such as groping and touching. Wallace was the original presenter of the BBC show Saturday Kitchen in 2002 and has also featured on Eat Well For Less?, Inside The Factory, Turn Back Time, Harvest and Supermarket Secrets. He was most known, however, for presenting MasterChef, MasterChef: The Professionals, and Celebrity MasterChef.
North Wales Chronicle
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- North Wales Chronicle
‘Just over half' of allegations against Gregg Wallace substantiated, report says
In November 2024 the show's production company, Banijay UK, announced that Wallace would step away from his role on MasterChef while historical allegations of misconduct were investigated. The report, led by law firm Lewis Silkin, found that the 'majority of the allegations against Mr Wallace (94%) related to behaviour which is said to have occurred between 2005 and 2018', with only one allegation substantiated after 2018. It also concluded that the 'majority of the substantiated allegations against Mr Wallace related to inappropriate sexual language and humour', adding that 'a smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language and being in a state of undress were also substantiated', with 'one incident of unwelcome physical contact' also substantiated. The report noted that during the course of the investigation, which was over a seven-month period, Wallace was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and said that the findings should be viewed in the context of his neurodiversity. During the investigation, it was also found that '10 standalone allegations were made against other people, two of which were substantiated', relating to inappropriate language, one for swearing and the other for racist language. Wallace, 60, has been 'co-operative and forthcoming' and was interviewed three times by the investigations team, for a total of more than 14 hours of interview. But Banijay UK said that 'Wallace's return to MasterChef (is) untenable' following the number of sustained allegations. Patrick Holland, chief executive of Banijay UK, said that while the report 'makes for uncomfortable reading, highlighting failures in legacy reporting and HR procedures', it also provided 'valuable insight to ensure that going forward everyone working on our productions feels safe and supported, and that inappropriate behaviour is quickly and professionally dealt with'. Mr Holland added: 'In earlier years, specifically prior to 2016 where the vast majority of these issues arose, it is clear that escalation procedures were not as robust as they should have been, and awareness of policies and procedures were lacking particularly amongst freelance staff.' He said Wallace would not be returning to MasterChef, adding: 'We are extremely sorry to anyone who has been impacted by this behaviour and felt unable to speak up at the time or that their complaint was not adequately addressed. 'MasterChef is a much-loved show which, year in, year out, changes the lives and careers of contestants, amateur and professional alike. 'It's made by a brilliant team of outstanding professionals and we look forward to bringing more exceptional cooking to screens in the coming months and years.' The BBC also said it has 'informed' Wallace that it has 'no plans to work with him in future', adding in a statement: 'The investigation details a substantial number of allegations of inappropriate conduct spanning 19 years. 'This behaviour falls below the values of the BBC and the expectations we have for anyone who works with or for us. 'Although the full extent of these issues were not known at the relevant time, opportunities were missed to address this behaviour, both by the production companies running MasterChef and the BBC. We accept more could and should have been done sooner.' The BBC also addressed the future of a series of MasterChef filmed last year which has not yet been aired, saying they had not made a final decision on broadcasting it, adding: 'We know this is disappointing for fans of the show and those who took part, and at the appropriate time Banijay UK will consult further with the amateur contestants. Their statement added: 'We want to reaffirm, there is no place for the abuse of power, unacceptable behaviour or language at the BBC, or shows made for the BBC.' Last year a BBC News investigation revealed a string of allegations of inappropriate sexual comments and alleged inappropriate behaviour against Wallace by 13 people who worked with him across a range of shows over a 17-year period, including former Newsnight host Kirsty Wark. A statement from Wallace's lawyers at the time said that it 'is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature', as reported by BBC News. In December, Wallace claimed in an Instagram video that complaints about his behaviour came from 'a handful of middle-class women of a certain age'. After a backlash, he apologised for any 'offence' or 'upset' caused and said he would 'take some time out'. Ahead of the official publishing of the external review, Wallace claimed in an Instagram post on July 8 that he had been cleared of the 'most serious and sensational accusations' against him. He added that his neurodiversity had 'now formally (been) diagnosed as autism', saying in the social media post that it was 'suspected and discussed by colleagues across countless seasons of MasterChef'. His social media post and the report come as the TV presenter and former greengrocer faced claims from 50 or more people, as reported by BBC News last week, with the majority saying he made inappropriate sexual comments, and 11 women accused him of inappropriate sexual behaviour, such as groping and touching. Wallace was the original presenter of the BBC show Saturday Kitchen in 2002 and has also featured on Eat Well For Less?, Inside The Factory, Turn Back Time, Harvest and Supermarket Secrets. He was most known, however, for presenting MasterChef, MasterChef: The Professionals, and Celebrity MasterChef.
