November 28th 2024.
After recent allegations of misconduct surfaced, Gregg Wallace, a long-time host of the popular BBC TV show MasterChef, has decided to step away from his role while investigations are underway. In a video posted on Instagram, Wallace appeared serious and thanked those who have reached out to show their support during this difficult time.
It has been reported that 13 people, including former Celebrity MasterChef contestant Kirsty Wark, have accused Wallace of making inappropriate sexual comments. Wark claimed that Wallace made "sexualised" jokes while filming the show in 2011. However, Wallace's lawyers have denied these claims and stated that his comments were not sexual in nature.
This is not the first time Wallace's conduct has come under scrutiny. In May 2024, reports claimed that he left the show Inside The Factory due to derogatory banter towards female staff. However, Wallace stated that he was simply trying to be friendly and was unaware that his behavior had caused offense. In October of the same year, The Sun reported that Wallace was being investigated after claims that he boasted about his sex life and took off his top in front of a female staffer on a different show. Wallace denied these allegations and stated that he has never flirted with or hit on anyone.
As a result of these allegations, Wallace has decided to step away from MasterChef while the show's producer, Banijay, conducts a thorough investigation. Wallace's lawyers have also stated that it is entirely false that he engages in any behavior of a sexually harassing nature.
The BBC, where MasterChef is produced, has stated that they are taking these allegations seriously and have robust processes in place to deal with them. They also clarified that any behavior that falls below their standards will not be tolerated. Banijay, who has also launched their own investigation, stated that they have clear expectations of behavior for all cast and crew members and have ways for concerns to be raised anonymously.
Since these allegations were made public, there has been some backlash against Wallace. Musician Rod Stewart, whose wife appeared on MasterChef, has called Wallace's departure "karma." However, Wallace's wife and children have stood by him, and he has received support from others in the industry.
Wallace has been a co-host of MasterChef since 2005 and has also worked on other popular shows such as Saturday Kitchen and Eat Well For Less. He is married to Anne-Marie Sterpini and has three children. While the investigation is ongoing, Wallace has stated that he is fully cooperating and is committed to clearing his name. The BBC and Banijay have also encouraged anyone with concerns to come forward and speak up.
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