MasterChef has lost nearly one million viewers for its latest series premiere, following the misconduct scandal involving presenters Gregg Wallace and John Torode. The episode, which aired on BBC One on Wednesday, attracted just under two million viewers, down from 2.7 million for last year's opener.
The BBC aired the 21st series despite the controversy, as the episodes were filmed before Wallace was fired and Torode's contract was not renewed. Production company Banijay UK decided not to renew Torode's contract after allegations of racist language, while Wallace was dismissed after an investigation upheld 41 of 83 complaints against him.
Viewers who tuned in criticised the BBC for not editing out the presenters more thoroughly. One viewer on X said: 'The BBC has made no attempt to remove them from the show.' Another added: 'We have also switched off MasterChef. I can’t bear to watch.'
BBC bosses have reduced the presenters' screen time and removed promotional pictures featuring them. Neither presenter is mentioned in episode descriptions for the three available episodes.
A PR specialist suggested Torode has 'one chance' to salvage his career by taking accountability and showing growth. The future of the show remains uncertain as the BBC navigates the fallout.
