Celebrity chef and MasterChef star John Torode has seen his once-thriving restaurant business collapse under the weight of a massive £1.7m tax debt. The financial turmoil forced the liquidation of his ventures, leaving creditors in the lurch.
The Rise and Fall of Torode's Empire
Torode, a household name thanks to his long-standing role on the BBC's MasterChef, had built a portfolio of restaurants across London. However, financial documents reveal that his companies, including The Luxe and The Bedford & Strand, were hit hard by mounting debts.
£1.7m Tax Bill Seals the Fate
According to filings, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) was the largest creditor, owed £1.7m in unpaid taxes. The debt proved insurmountable, leading to the winding up of his businesses. Creditors were left with minimal returns, with some receiving less than 1p for every pound owed.
Torode's Response
While Torode has remained tight-lipped about the collapse, sources suggest the pandemic and rising operational costs played a significant role. The chef has since shifted focus to his media career, including his work on MasterChef and other TV projects.
What's Next for the Celebrity Chef?
Despite the financial setback, Torode remains a prominent figure in the culinary world. Fans can still catch him on-screen, though his restaurant ventures appear to be a chapter firmly closed—at least for now.
