Gregg Wallace Announces Italian Relocation Following BBC Departure
Television personality Gregg Wallace has confirmed he is leaving the United Kingdom for a new life in Italy, a decision prompted by the sale of his substantial £1 million mansion in Kent. This move comes in the wake of his dismissal from the BBC last year after an internal investigation into historical workplace misconduct.
BBC Exit and Legal Dispute
The 61-year-old former co-host of MasterChef was terminated by the broadcaster in July following a review that examined 83 allegations, with 45 complaints against him being upheld. These substantiated claims primarily involved inappropriate sexual language and humour, with one instance of unwelcome physical contact, mostly occurring between 2005 and 2018.
Wallace initially pursued legal action against the BBC and BBC Studios Distribution Limited, seeking up to £10,000 in damages for alleged failure to disclose personal data, which he claimed caused him distress and harassment. However, he discontinued this claim in February without receiving any payment or damages.
New Chapter in Italy and Family Plans
In a social media video shared on Monday, Wallace revealed his intentions to embark on a "new chapter" by relocating to Italy with his family. He explained that his wife is Italian and expressed a long-standing affection for the country, planning to rent in various locations to create an adventurous lifestyle.
Central to his plans is the homeschooling of his six-year-old son, Sid, who is autistic and non-verbal. Wallace stated he will receive assistance from autism specialist friends in this endeavour, highlighting a personal commitment inspired by his son's condition. In fact, he is currently studying to become an autism coach to help others with the diagnosis live self-sufficient lives.
Property Downsizing and Financial Security
Wallace is selling his Kent property, an expansive home set on five acres with stables and a pond, which he purchased in 2017. He cited a desire for a slower pace of life and financial security for his younger wife, Anne-Marie, 38, and son as key reasons for the sale.
"I can't have the life I used to have," Wallace admitted, acknowledging the dramatic change in his circumstances. He aims to work less and ensure a legacy for his family, noting the challenges of providing for a special needs child and a younger spouse.
Dual Residency Strategy
Interestingly, the Italian move is not his only property venture. Wallace disclosed plans to purchase a "much more modest" house in Yorkshire, close to where his daughter resides. This will facilitate a dual residency arrangement, spending approximately five months each year in Italy and the remainder in the UK.
He described the process of decluttering and preparing his Kent home for the market, emphasising a shift towards a simpler, more focused family life filled with travel and adventure.
Background on BBC Investigation
Wallace's departure from MasterChef was announced in November 2024, stepping aside while the misconduct allegations were investigated. The review by law firm Lewis Silkin found the majority of upheld complaints related to inappropriate sexual language, with Wallace later apologising, saying he was "deeply sorry for any distress caused" and never intended to harm or humiliate.
In a Substack post, Wallace criticised the investigation process, calling it "not a legal one" and questioning the standard of proof. He argued that an "open invitation" for complaints after his reputation was already damaged led to grievances from his extensive career interactions, including with contestants, crews, and event attendees.
Since his BBC exit, Wallace has explored various online ventures, including selling cooking pans on TikTok and offering personalised video messages, as he navigates this significant career and life transition.
