Gregg Wallace Steps Away from MasterChef Amid BBC Probe into Sexual Comments

Nov 28, 2024, 02:47 PM

Gregg Wallace, the host of the BBC cooking show 'MasterChef,' has stepped away from his presenting role amid an investigation into historical allegations of misconduct. The allegations include claims of inappropriate sexual comments made by Wallace over a 17-year period on various programs. Among those accusing him is former 'Newsnight' host Kirsty Wark, who alleges that Wallace told 'sexualised' jokes during filming. The investigation is being conducted by the show's production company, Banijay UK, following complaints made to the BBC. Wallace has denied engaging in behavior of a sexually harassing nature, and his lawyers have stated that these allegations are entirely false. The external review will consider these complaints, and in the meantime, Wallace has thanked people for their support via an Instagram post. The allegations have also drawn comments from public figures like Sir Rod Stewart, who criticized Wallace's behavior towards his wife Penny Lancaster on 'Celebrity MasterChef.'