Gregg Wallace has confirmed he is again pursuing legal action against the BBC, months after abandoning his claim against the corporation.
The former MasterChef host dropped his legal action at the start of the year, announcing he would receive no compensation or costs. He had been pursuing up to £10,000 in damages, but court documents confirmed the claim against the BBC and BBC Studios had been "discontinued".
The ex-presenter had alleged that the broadcaster caused him "distress and harassment" by failing to properly respond to a request for his personal data. He launched legal proceedings following his dismissal from the long-running cookery programme.
Change of Heart
It seemed the matter was settled, but last night Wallace confirmed he is once again pursuing legal action against the BBC. Confirming he has a hearing next spring, the 62-year-old said on social media: "We are going down the legal route and I am the injured party.
"I'm a victim of a terrible witch hunt. First court date in spring next year. The investigation report shows no bullying, no harassment and no workplace touching."
He firmed up his plans and said he made the decision because of the way he was treated.
Background to the Claim
Wallace fronted MasterChef for two decades before stepping down from his presenting duties last year after multiple allegations of misconduct, initially exposed by BBC News. His sacking came after an investigation substantiated more than 40 complaints regarding his behaviour on the programme, including one instance of unwelcome physical contact and three occasions of being inappropriately undressed.
A spokesman said the BBC "won't be commenting while legal proceedings are ongoing."
He previously expressed that he was "deeply sorry for any distress" he caused and insisted he "never set out to harm or humiliate".
BBC's Defence
The BBC had maintained that Wallace was not "entitled to any damages", in its response to his legal challenge. In its defence submitted to the High Court in October, the BBC stated it rejected the notion that he "has suffered any distress or harassment" as a consequence of its handling of his requests.
The corporation also contended that Wallace brought his claim without providing advance warning, and noted that the BBC supplied him with the personal data it deemed he was entitled to on 7 October.
In February, the BBC confirmed: "Shortly in advance of a hearing (due 16 February), Mr Wallace discontinued his claim. He is not receiving any payment in costs or damages from either BBC or BBC Studios."
