John Torode has declared that he still has his "professional pride" as he reflected on his exit from MasterChef alongside Gregg Wallace last year. John was a constant presence on the popular BBC cookery show for two decades, appearing alongside former co-host Gregg, until they were both ultimately sacked in 2025.
Departure from the show
Gregg stepped away from the show in November 2024 pending an investigation into misconduct allegations. Later, a review upheld 45 of 83 allegations, including one described as "unwelcome physical contact", and he was let go.
John was dismissed in summer 2025 after an allegation that he used "an extremely offensive racist term" was upheld. John, for his part, claimed that he had "no recollection" of it.
Reflections on his time
More than a year later, MasterChef is back on screens with brand new judges: restaurant critic and journalist Grace Dent and chef-patron of Myrtle Restaurant and TV presenter Anna Haugh.
John recently reflected on his time on the show and his relationship with his former MasterChef co-star. In a chat with Go To Food, John was asked if he and Gregg ever socialised outside work.
He said: "That question's always going to be asked, I think. And the thing is that's what happens when you have a relationship like that at work. It's like any other work relationship."
He added: "And this is it, is that what goes on when you're at work, you're at work. And so, you do work, and I think this is quite normal for most people, your communication is at work and you go out and you go home."
What remains
Asked if he was surprised when his 20 years on the show came to an end, he said: "In life, I think everything's got to come to an end at some stage, you know, and that's all there is to it. But, you know, surprise is one thing."
John said what remains is the "joy" and "celebration". He also said that he must ensure those involved in the show, including the contestants, "realise how special they were".
"And that we don't detract from how much energy and effort they put into that programme and how much work, because they loved it. They became champions. They've changed their lives. Changing their lives because they love food was always really, really important."
It was then suggested that if Gregg had remained on the show, John might "still be there".
John added: "Listen, I don't know how to tell that story. I don't know what's going to happen. Life is life, isn't it? Do you know what I mean? What happens? Who knows? Drop a pebble in a pond."
He noted that it had been an "amazing summer", he has great friends and continues to cook "good food". "And one thing I've got is my professional pride, and I thank you guys because you know what? Reminding me of my career is a really lovely celebration."
