Gregg Wallace has stepped away from his role as a judge on MasterChef following allegations of inappropriate sexual comments made by 13 individuals over a 17-year period. The BBC received complaints about the presenter's behaviour, prompting an investigation by production company Banijay UK.
Among the accusers is former Newsnight host Kirsty Wark, who appeared on Celebrity MasterChef in 2011. She alleged that Wallace told “sexualised” jokes during early morning filming, creating an uncomfortable atmosphere. Other claims include Wallace talking openly about his sex life, removing his top in front of a female worker, and telling a junior colleague he was not wearing boxer shorts.
Sir Rod Stewart also criticised Wallace, calling him a “tubby, bald-headed, ill-mannered bully” on Instagram, alleging that Wallace humiliated his wife, Penny Lancaster, during her appearance on the show in 2021. Stewart wrote: “Good riddance Wallace … Karma got ya.”
Wallace’s lawyers have denied the allegations, stating that suggestions of sexually harassing behaviour are “entirely false”. Banijay UK said it had launched an external review and that Wallace would cooperate fully. The company encouraged anyone with concerns to come forward via a dedicated email address.
The BBC stated that any behaviour falling below its standards would not be tolerated, and it would support the production company in addressing complaints. Wallace has presented MasterChef alongside John Torode since 2005.
