The highly anticipated return of BBC MasterChef has been put on hold following ongoing investigations into former host Gregg Wallace.
The popular cooking competition, which typically airs between February and April, has been fully edited and is ready for broadcast.
However, BBC bosses have decided to delay its release while an inquiry into allegations against Wallace is conducted.
BBC Holds Off Airing MasterChef Amid Ongoing Investigation
The decision to postpone MasterChef’s return comes
as legal professionals continue to examine claims surrounding Gregg Wallace’s alleged inappropriate behavior towards contestants.
Reports suggest that lawyers are interviewing former contestants, production crew members, and Wallace himself as part of an extensive investigation.
Wallace, 60, stepped down from his role last year following accusations that he had made sexualized jokes and inappropriate comments on set. Despite denying any wrongdoing, his departure has raised significant concerns, leading to the BBC’s decision to delay the show’s broadcast.
A source close to the situation revealed, “BBC feel they have no option but to wait for the outcome of an inquiry into what went on, which is being conducted by lawyers at the firm Lewis Silkin.”
Gregg Wallace’s Involvement Too Integral to Edit Out
While some speculated whether the BBC could air MasterChef with Wallace’s contributions removed, it has been deemed impractical. As a co-host, Wallace played a crucial role in the show, not only tasting dishes alongside fellow judge John Torode but also interacting with contestants throughout the competition.
The source explained, “They did not want to scrap the show, as it would have punished those who took part. It was not possible to edit out Wallace’s contributions, as he tastes the dishes alongside Torode and also chats to contestants.”
With his presence deeply embedded in the format of the series, the network is left with no choice but to await the final findings of the investigation before making a decision on when the show will air.
Anna Haugh and Grace Dent Step In for Wallace
Amid Wallace’s departure, BBC producers have brought in replacements to ensure the show can continue smoothly. Chef Anna Haugh stepped in to film the final episodes alongside John Torode, while food critic Grace Dent joined Celebrity MasterChef in January.
However, the controversy surrounding Wallace has already impacted the show’s schedule, leading to the cancellation of a planned celebrity Christmas special.
Wallace Responds to Allegations
Gregg Wallace has strongly denied all allegations of inappropriate behavior, arguing that they stem from a small group of former contestants.
In a video statement posted on Instagram, he addressed the accusations, saying, “There were 13 complaints from over 4,000 contestants I have worked with in 20 years on the BBC show.”
However, his remarks sparked further backlash when he suggested that the allegations had been made by “a handful of middle-class women of a certain age.” He later apologized for those comments, though they only added fuel to the ongoing controversy.
What’s Next for MasterChef?
For now, the future of MasterChef remains uncertain as the BBC awaits the outcome of the legal investigation. While fans of the show eagerly anticipate its return, the network remains cautious about moving forward until all concerns are addressed.
With Wallace no longer involved and new faces stepping in, the show’s dynamic could see significant changes in upcoming seasons. However, the delay serves as a reminder of the challenges networks face when handling allegations of misconduct involving key figures in their productions.
As the investigation unfolds, audiences will be watching closely to see how the BBC navigates this sensitive issue and when MasterChef will finally make its return to screens.
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