Gregg Wallace, the longtime presenter of MasterChef, is embroiled in allegations spanning nearly two decades. The claims, now under external investigation, have cast a shadow over his illustrious television career.
Thirteen individuals have come forward with accusations of inappropriate behavior, stretching from 2005 to 2022. These allegations include a wide range of incidents, many of which have raised concerns about the culture on set.
Among those speaking out is Kirsty Wark, a former Newsnight presenter and Celebrity MasterChef contestant in 2011. She alleges that Wallace made “s3xualized jokes” on two separate occasions during filming.
“I think people were uncomfortable,” Wark stated, reflecting on the atmosphere during those moments. “We were essentially a captive audience… I was more angry than anything else because I thought it was so inappropriate.”
Other complaints detail Wallace’s alleged conduct with crew members behind the scenes of MasterChef. One former production team member claimed Wallace mimicked a s3x act while she knelt to clean a stain from his trousers.
The woman recounted how he held her head and made suggestive thrusting motions, an act she described as humiliating. This incident, reportedly from over a decade ago, is now one of many being reviewed.
Additional allegations include Wallace discussing his s3xual life openly with colleagues, which some found unsettling. Witnesses also claim he informed a female colleague that he wasn’t wearing boxer shorts under his jeans.
In another instance, it is alleged that Wallace removed his shirt in front of a female worker. He reportedly referred to the moment as giving her a “fashion show,” a comment that left some feeling uneasy.
Despite these mounting accusations, Wallace’s lawyers have categorically denied the claims. “It is entirely false that he engages in behavior of a s3xually harassing nature,” they said in a formal statement.
Wallace himself has taken to social media to thank supporters during this challenging time. “I would like to thank all the people getting in touch, reaching out and showing their support,” he wrote on Instagram. “That’s good of you, thank you very much.”
The accusations have prompted MasterChef production company Banijay UK to take immediate action. The company has launched an external investigation to fully and impartially review the allegations.
“Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always a priority,” the company said in a statement. “Our expectations regarding behavior are made clear to both cast and crew on all productions.”
The BBC has also emphasized its commitment to upholding workplace standards and has pledged to assist in the investigation. “We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and have robust processes in place to deal with them,” a spokesperson said.
While Wallace’s future with MasterChef hangs in the balance, pre-recorded episodes of MasterChef: The Professionals will air as scheduled. This decision reflects the BBC’s stance to continue with existing programming despite the controversy.
However, one particular allegation has captured the public’s attention and intensified scrutiny of the presenter. Witnesses claim that Wallace once walked into the MasterChef studio completely nude, wearing only a sock over his genitals.
The incident, described by those present as a “silly dance,” has become a focal point in the wider allegations. Those who witnessed the act allege it left staff members uncomfortable and unsure of how to react.
As the investigation unfolds, industry insiders stress the importance of transparency and accountability. The outcome of this probe could set a precedent for addressing similar workplace concerns in the future.
For now, Wallace remains committed to cooperating fully with the external review. Whether these allegations will irreparably damage his career or provide a wake-up call for workplace behavior remains to be seen.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/ @greggawallace)
