Lisa Faulkner has reacted to Gregg Wallace’s replacement (Image: ITV)
‘s other half Lisa Faulkner has opened up following the reveal of ‘s replacement on the much-loved culinary competition .
, alongside mainstay presenter John Torode who has helmed MasterChef since 2005. Commenting on the fresh addition to the show’s panel, John remarked: “I have loved working with Grace on MasterChef over the years. She has been an excellent guest, an inspiring critic and also set some incredible challenges.”
Torode further elaborated on MasterChef’s criteria stating: “Expertise is what MasterChef is all about, from the contestants to our wonderful production team, to us as judges. The love of food, the love of MasterChef, and that unquestionable expertise, makes Grace the perfect person to step in alongside me as judge for the forthcoming Celebrity MasterChef series.”
Upon learning the news that Grace would be stepping into Wallace’s shoes, Lisa gleefully responded: “Go Grace! ! ! ! ! ! ! “.
John Torode has said he’s thrilled to be joined by Grace (Image: BBC)
Grace, aged 51, is no stranger to the MasterChef kitchen having appeared multiple times as a guest critic. Her new prestigious role comes after Wallace withdrew from his position at amidst ongoing investigations into past claims of inappropriate behaviour, which Wallace has robustly refuted and indicated readiness to fully engage with any official process, reports .
Previously, Grace impressed in the MasterChef special edition titled ‘Battle Of The Critics’. Reacting to her latest career milestone, she said fondly: “I’ve been watching MasterChef since I was a girl sitting with my dad on the sofa.”
“My entire family tunes in to the show. It’s all about discovering and celebrating talent, and to have landed this role is a dream come true. I’m beyond excited, to the point where I’ve lost my appetite, which isn’t ideal for a restaurant critic. I feel incredibly fortunate to be taking over as the host of the next Celebrity MasterChef. I’m eager to meet the new celebrity contestants for 2025.”
Grace will be taking over from Gregg Wallace (Image: BBC)
, including Newsnight presenter Kirsty Wark. In response to the claims, Banijay UK, the production company behind the show, announced that it would conduct an external review into historical allegations of misconduct.
Wallace’s lawyers have previously denied the allegations, stating to the : “It is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”
Following the allegations, John had expressed his concern, saying: “The thought of anyone who has appeared on our show not having a brilliant experience is awful to hear.”
He also stated that he “fully supports” the investigation and said he “cannot make any further comment at this stage”.