John Torode has broken his silence to praise Grace Dent, his replacement on MasterChef, amid the fallout from his sacking. The 60-year-old described the restaurant critic's support as “unfailing” and blasted his critics as a “cult”.
Writing on his Substack, Torode said: “Grace Dent: What a strong extraordinary woman. Grace stands up for all that she believes in and supports. Graceful and never scared of doing the right thing or worried that the cult might too ostracize her. It was a privilege to stand by her side. Her support unfailing.” He also lauded his wife Lisa, 53, calling her his “rock” and “wonder woman”.
Torode was sacked from the BBC show in July after an investigation upheld a complaint that he used “an extremely offensive racist term” during production, which he denies. Co-host Gregg Wallace was also dismissed following a report that upheld more than 40 allegations of misconduct, including unwelcome physical contact.
Dent, 52, who previously stood by Torode calling him “one of the kindest, most concerned, clever, thoughtful men that I know”, is now filming her first edition of the regular MasterChef as presenter alongside chef Anna Haugh. Torode has said therapy has helped him cope with the “unexpected and brutal life change” of his firing.
