MasterChef judge Gregg Wallace has ignited a storm of criticism after using the term 'triggered' during a recent episode of the popular cooking show. The remark has drawn sharp condemnation from the broadcasting union, which has accused the BBC of failing to uphold editorial standards.
The controversy erupted when Wallace, known for his blunt critiques, told a contestant: 'That dish really triggered me.' While some viewers brushed it off as typical Wallace humour, others argued the term was insensitive, particularly to those dealing with mental health issues.
Broadcasting Union Fires Back
The Broadcast Union swiftly condemned the remark, releasing a statement that read: 'Casual use of psychological terminology in entertainment programming is irresponsible. The BBC must ensure its presenters are better informed about the impact of such language.'
This isn't the first time Wallace's comments have stirred debate. The 59-year-old presenter has built a reputation for his no-nonsense approach, but critics argue this latest incident crosses a line.
BBC Under Pressure
The BBC now faces mounting pressure to address the union's concerns. A spokesperson for the broadcaster said: 'We take all feedback seriously and are reviewing the comments in question.'
Meanwhile, social media remains divided, with some defending Wallace's right to free expression while others demand accountability. The controversy comes at a sensitive time for the BBC, which has faced repeated scrutiny over its content standards in recent years.
MasterChef, now in its 20th series, remains one of the BBC's most successful formats. Whether this incident will affect its future remains to be seen.
