BBC has confirmed the future of MasterChef after scandal (Image: BBC/Shine TV)
It has been confirmed that BBC bosses will continue to air MasterChef for at least another four years despite the ongoing scandal surrounding Gregg Wallace.
The 60-year-old TV chef is currently under external review due to historical allegations of misconduct which is being externally reviewed.
The MasterChef star also faces new harassment claims, including inappropriate touching at an event and making unwanted physical contact while filming another show.
His legal team has categorically denied these allegations, stating it is “entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature”.
Despite recent reports suggesting the show was ‘hanging on by a thread’ amid the controversy, it appears that show executives have committed to keeping MasterChef on air for another four years.
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The BBC show will continue to air for another four years (Image: BBC/Shine TV)
Filming for the 21st season recently wrapped up in Athens, Greece, with the next series expected to air in early 2025. However, the ongoing investigation into the allegations against Wallace had cast doubt over the show’s future.
Now, Banijay – the production company behind MasterChef – has confirmed that the show will remain on the for at least four more years, reports .
Bectu, the union representing over 40,000 staff, has released a statement in light of the scandal, confirming the future of MasterChef on the .
“Following the terrible revelations about alleged unacceptable behaviour by Gregg Wallace, a number of MasterChef freelancers approached us, afraid of losing their jobs,” the statement began.
“We have been in urgent talks with producers, Banijay. Today, we received positive news: Banijay has had ‘absolute confirmation from the that they are fully committed to the current series of MasterChef and the show for at least the next 4 years.’
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TV chef James Martin is a favourite to replace Wallace (Image: undefined)
“Filming will continue. We are delighted that Banijay and the will stand by the talent behind MasterChef. We would urge anyone affected by the revelations to come forward in confidence, either to us, or to one of the many supportive groups involved.”
The statement concluded: “Bullying, harassment, unwanted sexual conduct or any behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable is unacceptable. We will stand together and protect each other.”
The has found itself embroiled in controversy once more as the dad-of-three faces accusations of unprofessional behaviour and groping female staff – charges he vehemently denies.
Despite the turmoil, the has resolved to continue broadcasting the current season of MasterChef The Professionals. However, the broadcaster has decided to cancel the festive specials that were scheduled for later this month.
The has confirmed that the planned festive special episodes of MasterChef will not be aired over Christmas, and replacement shows have been announced.
On Monday 23 December, Celebrity MasterChef Christmas Cook Off will be replaced with an episode of Celeb Escape To The Country. Meanwhile, on Monday 30 December, MasterChef Meets Strictly Festive Extravaganza will be replaced with Repair Shop Favourite Fixes.
The decision to continue airing the current season of MasterChef The Professionals has faced widespread criticism. MP Rupa Huq suggested that broadcasting MasterChef could be ‘triggering’ for some women who have made serious allegations against Mr Wallace.
She argued that pulling the episode would send a strong message and show that the was taking the situation seriously. Following Wallace’s decision to step down from the series, TV chef James Martin is tipped to take his place. Other potential replacements include Nigella Lawson, Grace Dent, and Gino D’Acampo.