John Torode will not return to MasterChef after producers Banijay UK confirmed his contract would not be renewed following an allegation of using racist language. The 59-year-old Australian-born chef had revealed he was the subject of an allegation that was upheld as part of an inquiry into his former co-presenter Gregg Wallace's behaviour.
A spokesperson for Banijay UK said the legal team at Lewis Silkin that investigated allegations against Wallace also substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against Torode from 2018. The company noted Torode says he does not recall the incident but said the complaint was upheld. The BBC and Banijay UK agreed not to renew his contract.
The BBC described the allegation as involving an extremely offensive racist term used in the workplace, which was investigated and substantiated by Lewis Silkin. The BBC said it takes the finding seriously and will not tolerate racist language. Torode denied the allegation, saying he has no recollection and does not believe it happened.
In a statement on Instagram, Torode said he had not heard from the BBC or Banijay, and that he had hoped to have some say in his exit from the show he had worked on since 2005. He said he loved every minute on MasterChef but it was time to pass the cutlery. The 2025 series has already been shot and delivered to the BBC, though not aired. Torode will not be contracted for more episodes.
Torode's departure adds to the BBC's dilemma over the current unaired series, which prominently features Wallace throughout. BBC director general Tim Davie said he had not decided on airing it but was mindful of the contestants. He said there is a future for the show, as it is bigger than individuals.
