MasterChef returns with dismissed hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode
The new series of MasterChef airs despite the dismissal of its longtime hosts after misconduct findings.
MasterChef has returned with a new series filmed before the dismissal of hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode following upheld misconduct allegations.
Britain’s public broadcaster decided to air the amateur competition, citing commitments to contestants, despite criticism from the broadcaster’s union and women’s groups that the hosts’ conduct should not be rewarded with airtime.
Both presenters appear in the opening episodes on the network’s streaming service, though their usual banter and jokes have been scaled back. One contestant requested her segment be removed in response to the controversy.
Delayed launch and editing constraints
This year’s series, launching in August rather than the usual April, may affect viewing figures. Episodes are released three days a week until the finale, featuring six chefs per episode.
Contestant concerns
Sarah Shafi, one of the competitors, told Newsnight she wished the series had been shelved out of respect for those who filed complaints. The union Bectu and a leading women’s charity warned that broadcasting the show could retraumatize victims.
Broadcaster’s response
The network said it had not been \"an easy decision\" but believed airing the series honored the contestants’ dedication and gave viewers a choice. It maintained that broadcasting past footage does not diminish the seriousness of the findings against the presenters.
Background to the controversy
Last year, a Banijay report upheld over 40 complaints against Wallace, including unwelcome physical contact. Wallace denies the most serious allegations. The complaint against Torode involved a racist slur on set in 2018, which he does not recall using and condemned as wholly unacceptable.
Despite the hosts’ dismissal over misconduct, the network chose to air the series to recognize the contestants’ efforts, balancing criticism with its commitment to participants.
This topic was reported by BBC News.
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