MasterChef is reportedly set to return with new presenters after the departure of Gregg Wallace and John Torode. According to reports, Matt Tebbutt, 51, and Andi Oliver, 62, are being lined up as the new faces of the BBC cooking show, with Grace Dent potentially joining for the celebrity version.
A source told The Sun: "Matt is seen as a really safe pair of hands by the BBC. He has been in the frame for some time and is now being lined up for MasterChef." The insider added: "The BBC are keen to bring Andi Oliver on board too. She has been so popular as host of the Great British Menu."
The source noted that it was not yet known if Andi's schedule would allow her to commit, but said those in charge remained hopeful. "Everyone loves Andi and she would be perfect for the role in many ways," they continued, adding: "Nothing is set in stone yet but this is the dream line-up they’re hoping for."
John Torode was sacked from the show after an upheld complaint that he used the N-word twice. The BBC stated: "We will not tolerate racist language of any kind... John Torode’s contract on MasterChef will not be renewed." Gregg Wallace left after 45 out of 83 allegations of inappropriate behaviour were upheld.
Despite the scandals, TV experts insist the series is safe on the BBC until 2028. Production company Banijay and the BBC have two series completed, and bosses are keen to keep the show as it attracts a young audience. A second source told the Mirror they are confident the MasterChef brand will remain on the BBC "for the long term."
