Latest news with #Banijay
Daily Mirror
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Gregg Wallace and John Torode's MasterChef replacement favourites revealed
Gregg Wallace was axed from MasterChef following an investigation into Gregg's behaviour. John Torode was also sacked after law firm Lewis Silkin upheld a complaint that he used racist language Gregg Wallace and John Torode's 20-year run as the stars of MasterChef came to an end this month when it was revealed they were both axed from the BBC programme. Gregg, 60, initially stepped back from filming in November but has since been sacked from the show after an investigation upheld 45 out of 83 complaints against him. Not long after, co-star Torode was also sacked from MasterChef after law firm Lewis Silkin upheld a complaint that he used racist language eight years ago. While John denied the allegation and said he had "no recollection" of the incident happening, the BBC said that it takes the finding "extremely seriously". Following both stars' axes, there has been speculation on who could replace them for the future series of MasterChef. Food critic Grace Dent replaced Gregg for the Celebrity version of the show earlier this year. It is not yet known who will take on the role. According to the odds, Saturday Kitchen host Matt Tebbutt is the new 10/11 favourite to present the show. Andi Oliver is also a favourite to join the series. MasterChef could soon be serving up a "dream line-up" of presenters. Food critic Grace, Tom Kerridge and Chris Stark are also favourites to be on the show. Other names include Big Zuu, James Martin, Mel Giedroyc and Nigella Lawson. After the results of the investigation was released, John denied the allegations in a statement. He said: "Following publication of the Executive Summary of the investigation into Gregg Wallace while working on MasterChef, I am aware of speculation that I am one of the two other individuals against whom an allegation has been upheld. "For the sake of transparency, I confirm that I am the individual who is alleged to have used racial language on one occasion. The allegation is that I did so sometime in 2018 or 2019, in a social situation, and that the person I was speaking with did not believe that it was intended in a malicious way and that I apologised immediately afterwards. "I have absolutely no recollection of any of this, and I do not believe that it happened. However, I want to be clear that I've always had the view that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. "I'm shocked and saddened by the allegation as I would never wish to cause anyone any offence." As previously reported, production company Banijay said: "The legal team at Lewis Silkin that investigated the allegations relating to Gregg Wallace also substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against John Torode which occurred in 2018. "This matter has been formally discussed with John Torode by Banijay UK, and whilst we note that John says he does not recall the incident, Lewis Silkin have upheld the very serious complaint. Banijay UK and the BBC are agreed that we will not renew his contract on MasterChef."
Metro
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Who will replace John Torode and Gregg Wallace on MasterChef? The latest updates
Now John Torode and Gregg Wallace have been fired from BBC's MasterChef – there are already two 'confirmed' hosts set to take over. The overhaul comes after an independent review commissioned by production company Banijay, into misconduct accusations against Wallace, 60, upheld 45 of the 83 allegations, leading to his official removal from the cooking reality series. Torode, 59, exited hot on his heels after it was claimed he used the 'N word' on two separate occasions, although he has said he has 'no recollection' of the incident. The BBC is now deciding what to do with all their pre-recorded content, including one MasterChef season with Torode and Wallace, and a Celebrity MasterChef season, as well as two festive specials with just Torode. The broadcaster has reiterated its commitment to giving the amateur chefs featured in the unaired season their chance to shine. Meanwhile, the director-general Tim Davie has said he sees a future for the show beyond 2028 (the year until which the contract is currently renewed), all of which means, new hosts are likely to be announced by the BBC imminently. According to the latest sources, there are two TV personalities primed to take over (with other names still being bandied about). Earlier this year, BBC star Matt Tebbutt, 51, was posed as a potential replacement on both The Professionals and the traditional series after his success almost decade-long success presenting Saturday Kitchen. 'Matt rose to the challenge of coming into Saturday Kitchen after it was previously hosted by another big name in the world of food, James Martin,' an insider told The Sun at the time. The source added: 'He managed the feat of making it his own and almost making viewers forget who his predecessor was – now Beeb bosses, and the show producers Banijay, will be hoping he can work the same magic on MasterChef.' Osman added: 'There are so many great food presenters, Matt Tebbutt is now doing stuff on the professionals one for example, he'd be an amazing host for it.' What's more, in recent weeks, Tebbutt has also hinted that his tenure on Saturday Kitchen could come to an end in the near future. 'It's going to stop at some point. I'm going to have to do something,' he said on a podcast in March. Now, a source has told The Sun: 'Matt is seen as a really safe pair of hands by the BBC. He has been in the frame for some time and is now being lined up for MasterChef. Great British Menu star Andi Oliver, 62, has come forward as a top candidate to take over. The Sun source said that while Masterchef is 'keen to bring her on board' they are 'not sure if she can commit at this stage because of her schedule with [the Great British Menu]'. The insider continued: 'Everyone loves Andi and she would be perfect for the role in many ways. 'She is very talented on her own merit but she would also help bring a more diverse look for the show, which is much needed. 'The last thing the show wants is to be slapped with being 'pale, and stale' by a new generation of food lovers.' It comes after the confirmed the Gogglebox star had quickly become the fan-favourite at 5/2. 'Known for her upbeat energy and authority on Great British Menu, Andi's culinary credibility has made her a top choice among fans and bookmakers alike,' the site explained, per the Mirror. This casting would also mean she makes history as the first Black woman to present the show. Speaking about the MasterChef scandal when it first kicked off last year, Oliver told The Guardian 'there's a certain culture that allows it to happen.' The Stirring It Up podcast host (presented with her daughter Miquita Oliver) added: 'Culture will only change if we stop all the fake outrage and actually implement change.' Coming in strong as a frontrunner is restaurant critic Grace Dent, who was already tipped to be replacing Wallace even before Torode's sacking. The I'm A Celeb star, 51, started her journey on the BBC reality competition series as a contestant on the 2023 Christmas special. After Wallace was removed from the series at the end of 2024 after the misconduct allegation first came to light, Dent stepped in for him alongside Torode to film the new season of Celebrity MasterChef. Although it was unclear whether she would make the jump to the amateur series as a permanent replacement for Gregg, all signs point towards yes. Last week, The Sun reported that she was being lined up to take over to provide the show with a 'fresh start'. 'Grace is a natural fit for the show,' a source told the publication. 'She is also hosting Celebrity MasterChef alongside John. Grace loves to support up-and-coming talent in the industry and loves the format of the show.' Meanwhile, Pointless host Richard Osman added on the Rest is Entertainment podcast: 'Grace Dent hosted half of the celebrity one – whether we'll see that or not – but she can continue to host the celebrity one very very easily.' Michelin-starred English chef Tom Kerridge is hot on Oliver's heels with his odds at 3/1. The multi-restaurant owner (Hand and Flowers and Coach) has hosted various BBC shows including The Hidden World of Hospitality, Tom Kerridge's Fresh Start and Top of the Shop with Tom Kerridge – so he has form. Odds analyst Dave James told The Mirror that Tom 'is attracting a lot of support.' James added: 'His profile is huge, and he's one of the most trusted names in British food. This could come down to what direction the BBC wants – prestige, relatability, or a bit of both.' Influencer Poppy O'Toole is a more left-field suggestion, but going strong in the odds at 4/1. The TikTok star grew to fame for her 'potato' series in which she showcased the many, many ways you can cook the humble spud. Now, she boasts 4.8 million followers. The chef, who has a strong following among the younger generation, has also made the jump to mainstream media as a regular fixture on ITV's This Morning and has even appeared as a judge on Cooking with the Stars. The cookbook writer could well draw in new viewers to the show as it heralds in a new era. There are several other names in the mix from the high-profile stars such as James Martin and Nigella Lawson, to those who have already played in the MasterChef field. This includes The Professionals judge Marcus Wareing and Irish chef Anna Haugh, who has stepped in for Wallace already. More Trending British-Italian cook Angela Hartnett, who was Gordon Ramsey's protégée, has also been floated as an option with her odds at 5/1. She has also appeared as a judge on Great British Menu with Andi, giving them a pre-existing working relationship. Finally, Great British Bake Off star Nadiya Hussain's name has also been floated – although the BBC recently announced they would not be producing anymore shows with her, which she has vocally criticised. This article was first published on July 16, 2025. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. View More » MORE: Lisa Faulkner reveals secret to long marriage with John Torode as MasterChef scandal rages on MORE: Acclaimed thriller hailed as a 'masterpiece' now available to stream MORE: Richard Osman reveals he pined for wife for a year before meeting on BBC show
Metro
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Lisa Faulkner reveals secret to marriage with John Torode amid MasterChef drama
Lisa Faulkner has given a rare insight into her marriage with John Torode as the TV chef continues to make headlines after being sacked from MasterChef. Earlier this week, it was confirmed that Torode's contract with the BBC cookery programme had not been renewed, with an investigation upholding a complaint that he used 'extremely offensive' racist language. Torode, 59, who began hosting the programme in 2005 alongside Gregg Wallace, has said he has 'no recollection' of using the term, with the incident alleged to have taken place in 2018 or 2019. Meanwhile, his co-star Wallace, 60, has also been axed after several allegations of misconduct—one involving 'unwelcome physical contact'—were upheld by the probe commissioned by production company Banijay and carried out by law firm Lewis Silkin. Speaking ahead of her husband's career drama coming to a head, Faulkner, 53, who co-hosts Weekend Kitchen on ITV with him, shared what she believes is the secret to their long relationship. Faulkner met Torode on Celebrity MasterChef 15 years ago, tying the knot in 2019 at the 17th-century country estate Aynhoe Park. While they do not have children together, Torode has four kids from previous marriages, and Faulkner adopted a daughter with her ex-husband. Despite being in the public eye, though, the former EastEnders actress doesn't understand why people are so intrigued about her and Torode's home life. In an interview with The Mirror before the BBC investigation findings were published, she laughed: 'I honestly have no idea about why there's such interest.' Suggesting that she's also been steering clear of recent stories, she added: 'I don't read anything about us; I certainly don't have Google alerts set up or anything. 'The closest I've come to it is probably at food shows or when people stop us in the street and say, 'Oh, we love you two,' or that they love the shows.' Divulging what's helped keep their six-year marriage alive, Faulkner added: 'Maybe it's because we genuinely have a lovely relationship? We have a bit of banter, but it's never sniping at each other. 'We're just kind to each other, we get on, and we look out for each other.' The TV star couple have worked together for several years now, whether it be on screen or behind it. Faulkner stressed the importance of creating a balance between their work and personal lives, helped by the fact that they aren't 'in each other's pockets', which she acknowledges would make their relationship 'very different'. 'We have so much to do separately, and we film about 10 episodes of our show in nine days, so it's not really that much time together!', she admitted. 'It's really nice to actually catch up on holidays or when we're working together.' Torode returned to TV screens this weekend for the first time since he was let go from MasterChef. Weekend Kitchen, which has aired for nine series thus far, sees the spouses invite guests to prepare simple dishes and share top tips with viewers. As Saturday morning's episode got underway, neither Torode nor Faulkner explicitly addressed latest headlines in a bid to keep things moving. 'Hi there, we are so happy to see you in our Weekend Kitchen,' Faulkner opened the show. Torode added: 'We're gonna make your day even happier. 'How do you like the sound of stunning but simple recipes with just homemade ingredients?' Since Weekend Kitchen airs on ITV, its future had initially been thrown into uncertainty given Torode's now fraught relationship with the BBC. However, it appears the network is standing by him for the time being, as an insider said a matter of days ago: 'I think we will keep going with the show,' said the source. 'We don't know the details of the BBC issue and have never had any trouble with him ourselves.' The source added: 'We obviously have our own complaints handling procedure and a code of conduct for talent at ITV. 'There have been no issues raised with John, so the series is set to continue to air.' After it emerged that an investigation was underway into possible use of racist language, Torode confirmed that he was the person accused, but insisted in a statement that he 'doesn't believe it happened'. He wrote on social media at the time: 'For the sake of transparency, I confirm that I am the individual who is alleged to have used racial language on one occasion.' The presenter added that the person allegedly present when the comment was made 'did not believe it was intended in a malicious way' and that he 'apologised immediately afterwards'. Then, once news broke that Torode would not be returning to MasterChef, he issued a further response, claiming to have learned of his sacking via media reports. A report by law firm Lewis Silkin found there were 27 substantiated claims against Wallace relating to alleged incidents during this period, most of which related to sexually explicit comments. One allegation of unwanted physical contact during this timeframe was also substantiated. The report found that when concerns were reported to the production company during this period, there was a failure to retain records of any action taken. The report found that 17 upheld allegations relate to this period. In 2015, the production company behind MasterChef investigated an allegation about Wallace's behaviour, but he was not made aware of the complaint. The following year, the production company merged with Endemol, and more formal policies, regular training, and anonymous reporting lines were introduced. The BBC intervened in response to a complaint in 2017, following which Wallace was warned of the need to change his behaviour. One substantiated complaint about an inappropriate comment fell into this period. Wallace faced allegations of inappropriate sexual comments from 13 people across a range of shows over 17 years, BBC News reported. The TV star stepped away from presenting MasterChef while Banijay, the show's production company, announced that it was conducting an external review to 'fully and impartially investigate' the claims. BBC News said allegations include the presenter 'talking openly about his sex life, taking his top off in front of a female worker saying he wanted to "give her a fashion show", and telling a junior female colleague he was not wearing any boxer shorts under his jeans'. The charity Ambitious About Autism said it had dropped Wallace as an ambassador, citing the 'recent allegations'. Banijay UK confirmed it appointed law firm Lewis Silkin to lead the investigation into Wallace's alleged behaviour. Wallace said in a video posted to Instagram that accusations about him making sexual comments towards staff and guests have come from 'middle-class women of a certain age'. Downing Street said Wallace's response to the accusations being made against him was 'inappropriate and misogynistic'. A spokesperson added that Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy had held talks with BBC bosses in the wake of the Wallace row. Following the backlash, Wallace apologised for any 'offence' or 'upset' he caused with his remarks and said he would 'take some time out'. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said politicians should be ready to put in place 'mechanisms' that would instil 'confidence' that women will be taken seriously in reports of inappropriate behaviour after a Labour MP asked him about 'women of a certain age', reflecting comments Wallace apologised for. MasterChef co-presenter John Torode said in a social media post that he 'loves being part of' the programme and 'will continue to be a part of it'. Wallace told the Daily Mail he 'thought about suicide all the time' after allegations of misconduct were made against him. Wallace was sacked as MasterChef presenter following the inquiry into his alleged misconduct by production company Banijay. BBC News said it had not seen the final review from Banijay but understood the presenter had been sacked. In an Instagram post, the former greengrocer claimed he had been cleared of the 'most serious and sensational accusations' ahead of the published review. He also said he recognised that some of his humour and language were inappropriate 'at times' and apologised for this. The report by law firm Lewis Silkin for Banijay is published. It says that a total of 45 out of the 83 allegations made against Wallace during his time on the show were substantiated, including one allegation of 'unwelcome physical contact'. It concludes that the 'majority of the substantiated allegations against Mr Wallace related to inappropriate sexual language and humour', adding that 'a smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language and being in a state of undress were also substantiated'. In the wake of the report's findings, Banijay say that 'Wallace's return to MasterChef (is) untenable'. He also reiterated that he could not recall being racist. On leaving MasterChef behind after two decades, he added that Celebrity MasterChef and two Christmas specials, which he recently filmed, 'will be [his] last'. It remains to be seen whether they will make it to air. He went on: 'Personally, I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it's time to pass the cutlery to someone else. For whoever takes over, love it as I have. More Trending 'I will watch fondly from afar as I now focus on the many other exciting projects that I have been working towards. My tummy will be grateful for a rest after 20 years of eating, but what a joy it has been.' As for the BBC, the bosses have refused to share exact details of what Torode has been accused of saying. But, during an interview with BBC News on Tuesday, BBC director-general Tim Davie said that while he was not directly involved with the matter, he was told of the recommendation to not renew Torode's contract and felt 'happy that the team were taking action'. Torode and Wallace's replacements are yet to be announced, but current favourites for the gig are Matt Tebbutt, 51, and Andi Oliver, 62. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. View More » MORE: Acclaimed thriller hailed as a 'masterpiece' now available to stream MORE: Richard Osman reveals he pined for wife for a year before meeting on BBC show MORE: All 5 episodes of 'captivating' war drama streaming on BBC after agonising wait
Powys County Times
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Powys County Times
New MasterChef hosts 'confirmed' after Gregg Wallace axing
The new presenters taking over from Gregg Wallace and John Torode on MasterChef have been 'confirmed' after the pair were sensationally axed from the BBC show. An independent review commissioned by production company Banijay into misconduct allegations against Gregg Wallace upheld 45 of the 83 claims, leading to his removal from the cooking programme. Torode was also fired after racial language accusations were levied against him. It was claimed that he used the "N-word" on two separate occasions while working at the broadcaster. View this post on Instagram A post shared by MasterChef UK (@masterchefuk) New presenters 'confirmed' for MasterChef after Gregg Wallace and John Torode axing Now, it has been 'confirmed' that Saturday Kitchen's Matt Tebbutt is taking over one of the vacant positions after the axing of Gregg Wallace and John Torode. According to The Sun, BBC chef Andi Oliver, who currently stars in Great British Menu, is also joining him. A source told the publication: "Matt is seen as a really safe pair of hands by the BBC. He has been in the frame for some time and is now being lined up for MasterChef. "The BBC are keen to bring Andi Oliver on board too. She has been so popular as host of the Great British Menu. "They're not sure if she can commit at this stage because of her schedule with that show but everyone is hoping they can get her on board." View this post on Instagram A post shared by MasterChef UK Casting Account (@masterchefukcasting) The source added: "Everyone loves Andi and she would be perfect for the role in many ways. "She is very talented on her own merit but she would also help bring a more diverse look for the show, which is much needed. "The last thing the show wants is to be slapped with being 'pale, and stale' by a new generation of food lovers." Who are presenters Matt Tebbutt and Andi Oliver? According to IMDb, Matt Tebbutt is an actor and presenter who is known for starring in a number of shows like Saturday Kitchen and Food Unwrapped. The British chef and presenter often filled in for James Martin on Saturday Kitchen before becoming a regular face on the programme. Recommended Reading: He is also married to Lisa Tebbutt and has two children. Andi Oliver is also a British chef and presenter who has starred in a number of shows over her successful career, including Great British Menu, where she is a judge. She is also a radio presenter and former singer who has authored the book The Pepperpot Diaries: Stories From My Caribbean Table.
South Wales Guardian
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- South Wales Guardian
New MasterChef hosts 'confirmed' after Gregg Wallace axing
An independent review commissioned by production company Banijay into misconduct allegations against Gregg Wallace upheld 45 of the 83 claims, leading to his removal from the cooking programme. Torode was also fired after racial language accusations were levied against him. It was claimed that he used the "N-word" on two separate occasions while working at the broadcaster. A post shared by MasterChef UK (@masterchefuk) Now, it has been 'confirmed' that Saturday Kitchen's Matt Tebbutt is taking over one of the vacant positions after the axing of Gregg Wallace and John Torode. According to The Sun, BBC chef Andi Oliver, who currently stars in Great British Menu, is also joining him. A source told the publication: "Matt is seen as a really safe pair of hands by the BBC. He has been in the frame for some time and is now being lined up for MasterChef. "The BBC are keen to bring Andi Oliver on board too. She has been so popular as host of the Great British Menu. "They're not sure if she can commit at this stage because of her schedule with that show but everyone is hoping they can get her on board." A post shared by MasterChef UK Casting Account (@masterchefukcasting) The source added: "Everyone loves Andi and she would be perfect for the role in many ways. "She is very talented on her own merit but she would also help bring a more diverse look for the show, which is much needed. "The last thing the show wants is to be slapped with being 'pale, and stale' by a new generation of food lovers." According to IMDb, Matt Tebbutt is an actor and presenter who is known for starring in a number of shows like Saturday Kitchen and Food Unwrapped. The British chef and presenter often filled in for James Martin on Saturday Kitchen before becoming a regular face on the programme. He is also married to Lisa Tebbutt and has two children. Andi Oliver is also a British chef and presenter who has starred in a number of shows over her successful career, including Great British Menu, where she is a judge. She is also a radio presenter and former singer who has authored the book The Pepperpot Diaries: Stories From My Caribbean Table.
