Former MasterChef judges Gregg Wallace and John Torode have been replaced in the latest series of the beloved BBC cooking competition. Season 22 premieres tonight, Tuesday, April 21, on BBC One at 9pm, with new judges Anna Haugh and Grace Dent taking over the reins.
The Departures from MasterChef
Gregg Wallace was removed from MasterChef last year after a law firm upheld 45 out of 83 complaints regarding inappropriate behaviour. The 61-year-old expressed deep regret, stating he never intended to cause harm or humiliation. Meanwhile, John Torode did not have his contract renewed by Banijay UK, the show's producer, following allegations of racist language during an investigation into his former co-star's conduct.
A BBC spokesperson confirmed that John denied these allegations, noting he has no recollection of the incident and finds racial language unacceptable in any setting.
Gregg Wallace's New Chapter
Since his departure from MasterChef, Gregg Wallace has largely stayed off television. However, he recently hosted a 12-hour live cooking event on TikTok called Gregg's Kitchen. Now, he is embarking on a significant life change, announcing plans to leave the UK for Italy by the end of this month.
In a social media video, Gregg shared his excitement about this new adventure. He explained that he and his family plan to rent in various Italian locations, embracing travel and home-schooling his son Sid with the help of autism specialists. This move marks a fresh start focused on exploration and family life.
John Torode's Current Endeavours
Following his exit from MasterChef, John Torode has continued to host his ITV series, John and Lisa's Weekend Kitchen, alongside his wife Lisa Faulkner. The couple is also preparing to release a new cookbook in September, building on the success of their previous collaboration.
Their upcoming book, John & Lisa's Weeknight Dinners, features simple, repeatable recipes designed to encourage home cooking. Using everyday ingredients and straightforward techniques, the book aims to inspire confidence in creating meals for friends and family without the need for fancy gadgets.
MasterChef's New Era
As MasterChef enters its 22nd season, the competition kicks off with six contestants vying for four white aprons. The first two aprons will be awarded based on signature dishes that impress judges Anna Haugh and Grace Dent. The remaining four competitors will face a Classic Recipe Test to secure the last two aprons, followed by a challenge to impress last year's finalists with two courses to advance to the quarter-finals.
This new chapter for MasterChef, available on BBC iPlayer, promises to bring fresh energy and culinary expertise to the long-running series, while the former judges pursue their own paths beyond the show.
