**John Torode Identifies Himself Amid Racism Allegation in MasterChef Review**
MasterChef co-presenter John Torode has publicly confirmed he is the individual implicated in an allegation of racist language, as revealed by a recent investigation centring on fellow presenter Gregg Wallace. The comprehensive review, conducted by legal firm Lewis Silkin and commissioned by MasterChef’s production company Banijay UK, principally examined misconduct allegations against Wallace, but also substantiated two further claims involving others—one directed at Torode.
Taking to Instagram, Torode addressed speculation, revealing: “For clarity, I am the individual referenced as having used racial language on a single occasion.” Torode stated that the incident allegedly occurred in a social setting during 2018 or 2019. He recounted that the person involved did not perceive the comment as malicious and that Torode had immediately offered an apology. He added, “I have absolutely no recollection of any of this and do not believe it happened. Regardless, I firmly maintain that racial language is unacceptable in any context, and I am truly shocked and saddened by this allegation.”
Torode’s statement accompanies a period of intense scrutiny brought about by the investigation into his co-presenter Gregg Wallace. Of the 83 complaints examined concerning Wallace’s conduct, 45 were upheld, alongside the two against other individuals, including Torode. Most allegations against Wallace—94 percent—concerned behaviour spanning from 2005 to 2018, primarily involving inappropriate sexual language and humour, with a small number relating to other types of misconduct.
Recent press reports had also suggested Torode had temporarily left the show, citing potential mental health concerns in the aftermath of the allegation. However, a BBC source has disputed these claims, stating there is no evidence to support the narrative.
Gregg Wallace himself released a statement following the publication of the investigation’s findings, expressing regret for his actions. “For eight months, my family and I have lived under a cloud—trial by media, fuelled by rumour,” he said. Wallace indicated that while none of the most severe accusations were substantiated, he accepted that his behaviour, particularly one instance of unwanted physical contact, had caused distress. He has previously revealed that an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, made during the investigation process, has prompted him to better understand how his communication may be perceived.
The review concluded that Wallace’s return as a prominent figure on MasterChef would be “untenable” in light of the volume and nature of confirmed allegations. Banijay UK’s chief executive Patrick Holland described the report as “uncomfortable reading” but noted its value in helping foster a safer and more respectful workplace culture. “The findings deliver crucial insights to ensure a supportive production environment and prompt response to inappropriate behaviour,” Holland commented.
The BBC, responding to Banijay’s report, has indicated there are currently “no plans” for Wallace to resume any work with the broadcaster. A spokesperson stated, “The behaviour detailed fell short of the high standards expected by the BBC. Though the full scale of the issues was not previously recognised, more proactive steps could and should have been taken earlier.”
The future of a series of MasterChef episodes filmed in 2024 but yet to be broadcast also remains uncertain, as the BBC has not made a decision regarding their release.
This latest controversy follows an earlier BBC News investigation last year that brought to light historical allegations of inappropriate conduct against Wallace, with several individuals from across his career coming forward. Through legal representatives, Wallace has consistently denied any claims of sexual harassment.
The MasterChef saga thus continues to attract substantial attention, not only due to the prominence of its presenters but also because it raises pressing questions about standards of behaviour, accountability, and safeguarding in the television industry. Both Banijay and the BBC have stated intentions to review internal practices, aiming to prevent similar issues in the future and restore confidence amongst contestants, staff, and audiences alike.