A second contestant has been edited out of the latest series of MasterChef following the scandal that led to the sacking of hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode. The production company Banijay UK confirmed the unnamed cook requested removal after 45 complaints about Wallace’s behaviour and one against Torode were upheld.
Banijay UK told The Standard: 'One other contributor decided that given recent events they would like not to be included. We have of course accepted their wishes and edited them out of the show.' The contestant, who has requested anonymity, will not appear in any capacity, BBC News reported.
They are the second participant to be withdrawn from the pre-recorded series, largely filmed before the allegations surfaced in November 2024. Earlier, aspiring chef Sarah Shafi also left the show, citing concerns it would 'send the wrong message to women' if broadcast. Shafi initially declined an offer to be removed but changed her mind after the BBC confirmed the series would air.
Wallace fired after dozens of inappropriate behaviour allegations were upheld, including inappropriate sexual language and humour. Torode was axed following an investigation that found he used a racial slur in 2018. Despite calls from union Bectu to scrap the series, the BBC proceeded with broadcasts, re-editing episodes to reduce the presenters' screen time.
The controversy has hit ratings: the premiere attracted 1.96 million viewers, down from 2.73 million last year. The series continues to air weekly, with the BBC emphasising a focus on contestants rather than the disgraced hosts.
