**Gregg Wallace Responds to Report Substantiating Conduct Allegations After BBC Ends Collaboration**
Gregg Wallace, the former presenter of BBC’s MasterChef, has publicly addressed the outcome of an independent investigation that upheld nearly half of the misconduct allegations made against him during his tenure on the popular cooking show. The findings, which detail 45 substantiated incidents from a total of 83, have prompted both the BBC and production company Banijay UK to sever ties with Wallace, marking the end of his association with the flagship culinary competition.
In a statement released this week, Wallace expressed regret for the impact his behaviour had on colleagues, stating he was “deeply sorry for any distress caused.” While he maintained he “never set out to harm or humiliate”, Wallace described the past eight months, amid increasing scrutiny and media speculation, as profoundly challenging for himself and his family. “For eight months, my family and I have lived under a cloud,” he said, lamenting what he described as trial by media. Wallace acknowledged discomfort over one substantiated case of “unwelcome physical contact,” but insisted there was a divergence of perception regarding the incident.
The in-depth inquiry, commissioned by Banijay UK and led by law firm Lewis Silkin, revealed that the majority of the allegations—which included inappropriate sexual language, humour, and an isolated instance of physical contact—originated during the years 2005 to 2018. Notably, the report highlighted that since 2018, there had been only one allegation upheld against Wallace, suggesting a shift in his conduct. The timing coincided with Wallace’s subsequent diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, a factor that, according to the report, provided additional context to the communication issues raised.
Banijay UK Chief Executive Patrick Holland commented on the findings, acknowledging uncomfortable truths about the company’s historic handling of workplace concerns. “In earlier years, specifically prior to 2016, escalation procedures were not as robust as they should have been,” Holland admitted, referencing a lack of awareness regarding behavioural policies amongst freelance staff. He emphasised the intent to create safer, better-supported environments for all involved in their productions moving forward. However, he made it plain that “Wallace’s return to MasterChef is untenable” given the gravity and volume of the allegations.
The repercussions for Wallace extend beyond MasterChef. The BBC confirmed it has “no plans to work with him in future”, citing behaviour that falls short of the broadcaster’s values and expectations. In their own statement, the BBC conceded missed opportunities to address issues earlier but stressed a renewed commitment to tackling inappropriate behaviour—whether on its own productions or those it commissions.
Also under review is the fate of a yet-to-be-aired series of MasterChef filmed last year. The BBC has not ruled out its eventual broadcast but acknowledged the disappointment this uncertainty brings to loyal viewers and participating contestants, promising further consultation when appropriate.
The government has also weighed in on the situation, with Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy condemning the reported behaviour as “horrendous and appalling.” Nandy welcomed the broadcaster’s decision to cut ties with Wallace and called for industry-wide adoption of robust standards. “Much more must be done to ensure that everyone working in the creative industries is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect,” she stated, encouraging support for the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority to prevent similar issues in the future.
Wallace has previously denied engaging in sexually harassing conduct, refuting claims made by numerous individuals across nearly two decades of TV work. However, after initially attributing complaints to social biases, he later apologised for causing any offence and indicated a need for reflection. In a recent social media post, he revealed his neurodiversity diagnosis, asserting that this information shed light on some of the difficulties experienced during his career.
Having first appeared on UK screens in 2002 with Saturday Kitchen, Wallace has also been known for his roles on Eat Well For Less?, Inside The Factory, and several spinoffs of the MasterChef brand. His contribution to British television, spanning more than twenty years, now draws to a controversial close as the industry reckons with historical workplace behaviour, evolving expectations, and a changing cultural climate.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, open dialogue, and prompt action when it comes to safeguarding all who work in broadcasting and beyond. As both MasterChef and the wider industry move forward, the legacy of this investigation may yet prompt vital, overdue reforms.