The return of Celebrity MasterChef on Monday night left many viewers scratching their heads, as John Torode was back presenting the show months after his high-profile departure from the BBC.
The Backstage Controversy
The host, 60, was let go by the corporation in July following accusations he used a racist slur. His co-host, Gregg Wallace, was also dismissed after the BBC upheld more than 40 complaints about his conduct, which included the use of inappropriate sexual language and unwelcome physical contact.
Before his exit, Torode had already filmed the celebrity series alongside new judge Grace Dent, 52. The BBC stated that airing these pre-recorded episodes was not a 'straightforward decision', but confirmed that every celebrity contestant and guest featured had given their blessing for the shows to be broadcast.
Viewer Reaction and Awkward Moments
Despite this explanation, the sight of Torode back in the MasterChef kitchen, which had relocated to Birmingham for the new series, provoked a wave of confusion on social media. Viewers expressed their surprise, with comments such as 'I thought John had been sacked as well?!?!' and 'I thought John got sacked an all?'
Some viewers were quick to pick up on what they saw as Torode's poorly chosen words during the broadcast. One noted his opening line about a 'Brand New Judge', while others highlighted his statement, 'Somebody is going to be leaving', as being laden with unintended meaning given his own situation.
A New Era for MasterChef
The future of the show now rests with Grace Dent and Anna Haugh, who will take over as full-time hosts for the 2026 series. Dent has been open about her mission to rescue the cookery competition from what she described as its previous 'male energy'.
While she adores John Torode, calling him 'one of the kindest, most concerned, clever, thoughtful men' she knows, her opinion of Gregg Wallace changed after reading the BBC report, stating her previous positive recollections of him were now 'irrelevant'.
Since his axing, John Torode has taken to social media, sharing a post that read, 'The best decision I ever made? To be quiet and move on. I have nothing to prove.' He claimed he learned of his dismissal via the BBC News website.
Meanwhile, Gregg Wallace is reportedly suing the BBC and one of its subsidiaries for causing him 'distress and harassment' following his sacking.
