A second MasterChef contestant has been edited out of the current BBC One series following the scandals that saw longterm hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace sacked
14:05, 14 Aug 2025Updated 14:06, 14 Aug 2025
A second Masterchef contestant has been edited out of the current series that the pair are froting(Image: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
A second MasterChef contestant has been edited out of the current BBC One series, which has faced controversy and seen both presenters dropped from their roles.
A spokesperson for the show’s production company, Banijay UK, said: “One other contributor decided that, given recent events, they would like not to be included. We have, of course, accepted their wishes and edited them out of the show.” It comes after John Torode’s wife Lisa Faulkner breaks her silence after his MasterChef sacking.
The pair have fronted the series for years but recently came under fire (Image: BBC)
The Mirror has contacted the BBC for comment. Both Wallace and Torode remain in the series, which began last week on BBC One and on iPlayer.
In November 2024, it was announced that Wallace would step away from his role on the BBC cooking show while historical allegations of misconduct were investigated, and last month a statement from Banijay UK and the BBC said they had agreed “Mr Wallace’s return to MasterChef is untenable”.
Wallace, 60, issued an apology saying he was “deeply sorry for any distress caused” and that he “never set out to harm or humiliate” in the wake of the Lewis Silkin review, which saw 45 out of 83 allegations made against him upheld.
Torode, 60, was the subject of an allegation about using racist language that was upheld as part of the review, but the TV star said he had “no recollection of the incident” and was “shocked and saddened” by the claim.
The PA news agency understands the second contestant to be edited out of the show has asked not to be identified and will not feature in the show.
The episode which would have featured the individual was broadcast on BBC One on Wednesday night, but the programme featured only five chefs rather than the usual six.
Last month, the BBC confirmed the series, which was filmed last year before allegations against Wallace and Torode were upheld, would be broadcast in August, adding that it had “not been an easy decision in the circumstances.”
It added: “In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters. We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC.
“However, we believe that broadcasting this series is the right thing to do for these cooks who have given so much to the process. We want them to be properly recognised and give the audience the choice to watch the series.
“At this stage, we have not taken a decision on the celebrity series and Christmas special, which was filmed earlier this year, and we will confirm our plans later in the year.”
In an interview with The Sun last month, Wallace apologised to anyone hurt by his behaviour but insisted he is “not a groper, a sex pest or a flasher”.
Torode and Wallace became MasterChef co-hosts in 2005 and celebrated the shows 20th anniversary at a dinner in 2024, which Wallace said was “one of the most emotional evenings” of his life.
MasterChef viewers had to switch off just minutes into the new series premiering on TV when they realised John Torode and Gregg Wallace were still presenting the show
MasterChef viewers had to switch off just minutes into the new series premiering on TV when they saw John Torode and Gregg Wallace had not been edited out (Image: BBC)
MasterChef viewers had to switch off just minutes into the new series premiering on TV. The BBC culinary staple came under fire recently as presenters John Torode and Gregg Wallace were both sacked over different matters, and fans were quick to slam television bosses for not editing them out of the broadcast.
Torode’s contract was not renewed by production company Banijay UK, after he was alleged to have used racist language, whilst his co-star Gregg was fired from the programme after 41 of the 83 complaints against him were upheld by an investigation into his conduct. And despite the scandal, viewers tuned in to the launch of the 21st series but were quick to make their disdain known when the two TV stars appeared on screen as normal.
One viewer wrote on X: “I shall tune in to this for 10 or 15 minutes just to see how it has been re-cut to remove its presenters,” before adding just minutes later: “Well I’ve switched it off. The @BBC has made no attempt to remove them from the show.” A second viewer admitted they had done the same, and suggested that the broadcaster should have replaced them with a voiceover instead. It comes after reports Gregg Wallace is trying to ‘earn a living’ after MasterChef exit amid ‘battle every day’.
One viewer suggested the pair should have been replaced by a voiceover(Image: BBC)
They wrote: “We have also switched off Master chef. I can’t bear to watch. Of course they could have edited the presenters out and had some sort of voice over.” A third viewer said: “I’m shocked and stunned that the BBC are putting on master chef after Greg Wallace was sacked are they so hard up for new programmes.”
Despite the scandal, some fans believed that the series would be a ratings winner for the broadcaster, with one viewer saying: “This is gonna end up being one of the most watched series of masterchef ever, isn’t it?” and a second agreed, as they said: “I’ll bet #MasterChef gets it’s highest ever viewing…” and a third also predicted: “Viewing figures are gonna be sky high.”
There was no acknowledgment of the scandal at the beginning of the episode, and things seemed to continue as normal as viewers were introduced to this year’s lineups. The amateur chefs taking to the kitchen this year include marketing manager Shaun, former actress Penelope, kickboxing instructor Gom, marketing co-ordinator Thea, business development manager Gemma, and vocal coach Beth. In the end, it was Penelope, Thea and Gemma who were voted on into the quarter finals, leaving six more hopefuls to try their luck in the kitchen next week.
Upon her elimination, Penelope said: “I’m sad, but I’ve just had a great time. It’s been adventure. I’m going to take on the feedback I have received but I’m not going to change my ways of experimenting because that to me is the joy of cooking.”
Wallace was axed from the series after law firm Lewis Silkin upheld 45 out of 85 complaints against him of inappropriate behaviour. While the 60-year-old has admitted to using inappropriate language at times, he denies the more serious allegations. Meanwhile, co-host Torode did not have his contract renewed with Banijay UK, who make MasterChef, after he was alleged to have used racist language amid an investigation into his former co-star’s behaviour.
He claimed he had no memory of making the comment and denies it ever happened. One user said on X/ Twitter : “The decision to screen MasterChef tonight is unforgivable. There was no need to show this next series on BBC when they could’ve just streamed it on iPlayer and people who wanted to watch it would still have been able to. We will switch BBC off.”
Another fan was convinced: ” #MasterChef will contain some type of message this evening or it would have been pulled.”
The latest series of MasterChef landed on BBC iPlayer this morning before airing on BBC One at 8pm. There had been concern over the future of the already filmed series following both Wallace and Torode’s axe.
However, they both appear in the introduction shots of the first episode. Torode said: “This is the sort of stuff that dreams are made of”, while Wallace told a contestant: “That is a cracker of a job”.
MasterChef is returning tonight with hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode as its presenters, despite the pair being recently fired from the BBC One series following an investigation
MasterChef fans threaten to boycott over Gregg Wallace and John Torode inclusion(Image: BBC/Shine TV)
MasterChef fans are furious that former hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode are included in tonight’s episode of the BBC programme. The duo were recently axed from the series for different reasons after Wallace was initially under investigation over complaints made about his behaviour.
Wallace was axed from the series after law firm Lewis Silkin upheld 45 out of 85 complaints against him of inappropriate behaviour. While the 60-year-old has admitted to using inappropriate language at times, he denies the more serious allegations. Meanwhile, co-host Torode did not have his contract renewed with Banijay UK, who make MasterChef, after he was alleged to have used racist language amid an investigation into his former co-star’s behaviour.
While the duo have been axed from the programme, they are still featuring in tonight’s episode of MasterChef, much to the disappointment of fans.
They rushed to social media to express their anger as they threatened to boycott the series for showing the two hosts on our screens this evening.
One user said on X/Twitter: “The decision to screen MasterChef tonight is unforgivable. There was no need to show this next series on BBC when they could’ve just streamed it on iPlayer and people who wanted to watch it would still have been able to. We will switch BBC off.”
Some fans were annoyed with the two former hosts’ inclusion(Image: BBC)
“I hope no one watches #MasterChef #BBC,” said one user along with an angry face emoji. One added: “ou shouldn’t be showing it either. Poor decision Mr Davie. I think your days are numbered.”
Another fan was convinced: “#MasterChef will contain some type of message this evening or it would have been pulled.”
The latest series of MasterChef landed on BBC iPlayer this morning before airing on BBC One at 8pm. There had been concern over the future of the already filmed series following both Wallace and Torode’s axe.
However, they both appear in the introduction shots of the first episode. Torode said: “This is the sort of stuff that dreams are made of”, while Wallace told a contestant: “That is a cracker of a job”.
Despite both Wallace and Torode appearing in the episode, their screen time has tanked compared to previous series. BBC bosses have begun to airbrush the pair out of MasterChef – reducing screen time and removing them from promotional pictures on iPlayer.
Allegations against MasterChef presenters Gregg Wallace and John Torode were upheld, and they both lost their jobs on the BBC programme, which has aired in various guises since 2005
06:27, 24 Jul 2025Updated 06:39, 24 Jul 2025
John Torode and Gregg Wallace had presented MasterChef for 20 years (Image: BBC/Shine TV)
The BBC has stressed it wants to “properly recognise” the MasterChef contestants by airing a series filmed last year before allegations against Gregg Wallace and John Torode were upheld.
But they filmed a series last year before these claims were upheld, and the BBC has decided to air this to honour the amateur chefs involved. However, the futures of the celebrity series and the Christmas special, again both already filmed, remain unclear as yet.
Reacting to the news on Wednesday, one former MasterChef worker said the decision to go ahead showed “a blatant disregard for the people who have come forward”.
Speaking to BBC News, she warned it was “a total reversal of so-called firing from MasterChef – how can you be fired by your work is still made public? While a gap in the prime time schedule is not ideal, for integrity they should have found other series to go into those slots.”
Gregg and John, pictured last year, will feature in the series of MasterChef due to air next month(Image: BBC/Shine TV)
However, the BBC said in full: “After careful consideration and consultation with the contestants, we have decided to broadcast the amateur series of MasterChef on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 6 August. MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the amateur chefs taking part. The focus of it has always been their skill and their journey.
“This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it. In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters. We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC.
“However, we believe that broadcasting this series is the right thing to do for these cooks who have given so much to the process. We want them to be properly recognised and give the audience the choice to watch the series.
“At this stage we have not taken a decision on the celebrity series and Christmas special, which was filmed earlier this year, and we will confirm our plans later in the year.
“Most importantly MasterChef is a brilliant, much-loved programme which is bigger than any one individual. There are many talented, dedicated and hard-working people who make the show what it is. It will continue to flourish on the BBC and we look forward to it returning stronger than ever in the future.”
The statement followed news last week that Torode’s contract on MasterChef would not be renewed, as confirmed by the BBC and production company Banijay UK.
Torode, who celebrated his 60th birthday on Wednesday, confirmed he was the subject of an allegation about using racist language that was upheld as part of a review carried out by law firm Lewis Silkin into the alleged behaviour of his co-presenter Wallace.
JOHN Torode directed the N-word at staff member as well as singing it in a Kanye West song, claimed a source.
We reported yesterday how the MasterChef star, 59, repeated lyrics from Gold Digger, which contain the racial slur, at an after-work gathering six or seven years ago.
5
The BBC sacked Torode this week for using an “extremely offensive racist term”Credit: PA
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Gregg Wallace has also been fired after the report upheld 45 of 83 allegations against himCredit: BBC
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Insiders claimed the pair “were never friends” when filming endedCredit: PA
Torode is said to have used the word again while chatting to a pal on the BBC show’s production team – who did not take offence.
Torode, who vehemently denies ever using the N-word, is “utterly devastated” by the accusations and has “absolutely no recollection”.
He was sacked this week after an investigation by the Beeb and production company Banijay – which also saw former co-host Gregg Wallace axed for inappropriate behaviour.
However, the BBC has how revealed the second incident was not the one reported and led to a complaint.
The allegation was actually in reference to an incident that unfolded a year before.
An insider claimed Torode used the “extremely offensive racist term” on set after filming a MasterChef episode.
It was allegedly directed towards a member of staff.
And, there were eight further complaints lodged against Torode, which ranged from alleged racist comments, sexual remarks and abusive language towards junior production employees.
But, they were not upheld due to lack of evidence.
The report has also highlighted a complaint against a third unnamed person for swearing.
MasterChef Hosts in Feud: Gregg Wallace vs John Torode
According to the BBC, this is in reference to a senior exec on the show.
The company also lifted the lid on Torode and Wallace’s partnership and how the on-screen pals were “never friends” behind the scenes.
An ex-staffer claimed: “Clearly they had a good chemistry when the cameras were rolling. But you rarely saw them interact when the cameras were off.
“And when Gregg was saying inappropriate things like that, John held his counsel. I never saw him step in.”
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Wallace unfollowed Torode and his wife after the investigation was launched last yearCredit: BBC
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The investigation also looked into eight further complaints against Torode, but they were dismissedCredit: BBC
Torode himself admitted “we’ve never been friends. We’ve not been to each other’s houses”, in 2017.
He even confessed to the Mirror there had been “a couple of standoffs” which left Torode walking away from his co-star.
2005 to 2011: Problems with MasterChef began way back in the mid-2000s, with 27 substantiated claims made against host Gregg Wallace regarding alleged incidents in this period, according to a report by law firm Lewis Silkin.
Most of these were related to sexually explicit comments, although one allegation of unwanted physical contact in this period was also substantiated.
The same report found there was a failure by the production company to retain records of any actions taken during this time.
2012 to 2018: Another 17 allegations were upheld from this period, according to the report.
The production company behind MasterChef investigated an allegation about Wallace’s behaviour in 2015 – but he was not made aware of the complaint.
In 2016, the production company merged with Endemol, introducing more formal policies as well as regular training and anonymous reporting lines.
The BBC intervened in response to a complaint in 2017, after which Wallace was then warned to change his behaviour.
2019 to 2024: One substantiated complaint about an inappropriate comment was from this time period.
November 2024: Wallace faces allegations of inappropriate sexual comments from 13 people across a 17-year period on a range of TV shows.
He steps away from presenting MasterChef while Banijay – the show’s production company – announces it will conduct an external review to “fully and impartially investigate” the claims against him.
Some of these allegations included Wallace “talking openly about his sex life, taking his top off in front of a female worker saying he wanted to ‘give her a fashion show’, and telling a junior female colleague he was not wearing any boxer shorts under his jeans”.
Banijay UK also confirms it has appointed law firm Lewis Silkin to lead the investigation into Wallace’s alleged behaviour.
December 2024: Wallace posts a video on Instagram which claims accusations against him making sexual comments towards staff and guests have come from “middle-class women of a certain age”.
His remarks are widely panned as “inappropriate and misogynistic”, causing Wallace to apologise for any “offence” or “upset” he caused with his remarks, saying he will “take some time out”.
Co-host John Torode says he “loves being part of” the show and “will continue to be a part of it”. July 8 to 9, 2025: Wallace is sacked as MasterChef presenter following an enquiry into his alleged misconduct by Banijay.
In an Instagram post, the former greengrocer claimed he had been cleared of the “most serious and sensational accusations” against him, ahead of the published review.
He also said he recognised that some of his humour and language was inappropriate “at times” and apologised for this.
July 14, 2025: Lewis Silkin publishes its report, on behalf of Banijay.
It says that a total of 45 out of the 83 allegations made against Wallace during his time on the show were substantiated, including one allegation of “unwelcome physical contact”.
It concludes that the “majority of the substantiated allegations against Wallace related to inappropriate sexual language and humour”, adding that “a smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language and being in a state of undress were also substantiated”.
In the wake of the report’s findings, Banijay says that “Wallace’s return to MasterChef (is) untenable”.
July 15, 2025: Co-host Torode is sacked after allegedly making a racist remark while on the show.
BBC bosses axe the TV host and slam an “extremely offensive” term, which was raised in the bombshell report into Gregg Wallace’s “inappropriate behaviour”.
Torode says the comment – which the report attributed to an unnamed person – referred to him, but added: “I have absolutely no recollection of this, and I do not believe that it happened.”
This comes after a source told The Sun Torode is in “a pretty bad way — he’s feeling very fragile” since being sacked this week.
Melbourne-born John moved to the UK in 1991 and started working in London restaurants including Quaglino’s.
It was there he met greengrocer Wallace, who provided their veg.
He started cooking on This Morning in 1996 before he and Wallace began hosting the revamped MasterChef in 2005.
A source added: “One of the allegations is that he said the N-word while repeating Kanye’s Gold Digger song during a gathering with his colleagues when filming had ended. John is adamant he would never have used the N-word and only knows the radio version of the song which says, ‘Now I ain’t sayin’ she a gold digger, but she ain’t messin’ with no broke, broke’. The clean version of the song is the only one he knows.
“The person who raised the complaint didn’t say anything at the time. So John only found out a few weeks ago that this issue had been raised.
“This has hit him like a ton of bricks as he does not recall it.
“He insists he would never have repeated the N-word in those lyrics because he only knows the radio edit of that song.”
A source added: “John is devastated by all of this. He is being supported by his wife Lisa and friends. They’re keeping him close because he has really been struggling.
“John abhors this kind of language and does not recall ever reciting a racist slur in a lyric, or directing one to someone he considered a friend at work.
“He adored MasterChef. It was a huge part of his life. To have it all ending like this is awful.”
FORTY-five allegations made against Gregg Wallace during his time on MasterChef, including one of “unwelcome physical contact”, were found to have been substantiated.
An independent report commissioned by production company Banijay assessed 83 allegations against Wallace.
The report substantiated:
– Twelve claims he made inappropriate jokes and innuendo;
– Sixteen reports he made sexually explicit comments;
– Two allegations that he made sexualised comments to or about someone;
– Four complaints that he made culturally insensitive or racist comments;
Forget MasterChef’s Gregg Wallace and John Torode, Jessica Boulton’s ruthless rundown of the showbiz week reveals the EIGHT stories you should be talking about instead….. including the only cancelled BBC star who actually deserves our tears
Jessica Boulton works on the Mirror’s features desk, specialising in celebrity features and interviews. She also writes a weekly observational comedy column Jess Saying, which runs each Saturday. In addition, she oversees the entertainment pages, helps co-ordinate the Pride of Britain coverage and newsletter and guest edits The Diary. Jessica joined The Mirror’s sister paper The People in 2006, and has since worked on the Sunday Mirror and Now magazine. Most likely to be found raving about The Oscars, BAFTAs, Netflix, Friends or Star Wars.
Naked yoga, novel book launches, British Emmy nominations and one very heated situation in the Masterchef kitchen….Jess Boulton takes a no-holds-barred dive into this week’s most bizarre showbiz shenanigans
Daily Mirror Columnist Jessica Boulton brings you Jess Saying, her wry, witty and slightly whimsical take on the heroes and villains, winners and losers and the outright outrageous showbiz shenanigans keeping us amused this week. So….where better to start than….
JUSTICE FOR BBC ICON MONDAY
I’ve always considered myself to be woke. I’m left-wing, open-minded and look good in red (in the UK, definitely not in the US). I’d fully support trigger warnings on Bambi and The Lion King. And I’d argue there should be one on Titanic (for “scenes of disturbing door hoggery”). But this week I’m afraid to say, even I think the woke world has gone too far. For a true BBC icon has outrageously and undeservedly been cancelled. It’s a sad, sad state of affairs after 30 years of excellence. But it’s a sign of the times: one day everyone loves you and the next…you’re persona non grata, written off as a bad fit for the Gen Zs of today (who don’t watch TV anyway, so why are we pandering?). So which iconic BBC veteran has been tragically stripped of work this week? Clue: they first appeared in 1995 – and won millions of fans overnight. Yes, you’ve guessed it. There’s only one BBC star I’m weeping for: Mr Darcy. Well, his Wet White Shirt, to be precise.
Colin Firth’s Wet White Shirt makes its TV debut in BBC’s 1995 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice. It went on to become a TV icon in its own right (Image: BBC)
For three decades, the sterling performance of Colin Firth’s infamous Pride and Prejudice shirt has never been equalled. But its outstanding contribution to entertainment has now been called into question – over fears it’s been objectifying men. Yup. It’s true. Some buttoned-up bores at Netflix are currently debating what’ll make the cut and what won’t in their upcoming P&P remake.
But then I realised I’d got the wrong end of the stick…I’m only teasing of course. But I do have two little points I’d like to flag to people’s attention:
POINT 1. What else would Netflix need to change to fit a more ‘2025-friendly’ adaptation? Jane’s famous first line definitely loses a certain something after my woke rewrite:
“It is a truth universally acknowledged – but not necessarily accepted as we each have our ‘own truth’ – that a single man, sorry, dependent-free gender-neutral individual, in possession of a ‘good fortune’ (aka,a disproportionate amount of wealth thanks to genetic privilege and the unjust dominance of patriarchy), must be – although is under no obligation to be and will face no judgment if they are not – in want of a wife…..or a loving relationship that equally fulfils the needs of both you and your consenting partner/partners, but does not necessarily adhere to any societal expectations.”
Jonathan Bailey said this scene in Netflix’s Bridgerton was a homage to Colin Firth’s white shirt in 1995’s Pride & Prejudice (Image: LIAM DANIEL/NETFLIX)
NAKED AMBITION TUESDAY
The Primetime Emmy nominations are finally in! Adolescence was the UK’s biggest contender this year – with nods including Best Actor for Stephen Graham and Best Supporting for 15-year-old Owen Cooper (I’d argue it should be reversed).
Meanwhile, leading the way with a mindblowing 27 noms was Apple’s truly genius Severance – a drama in which people clock off at 5pm and all memory of work from that day is completely wiped. (You can decide for yourselves if that’s a good thing or not.)
The most delightful Emmy news of all? Nobody Wants This, with my all-time celeb faves Adam Brody and Kristen Bell, landed nods for best comedy series, actor and actress. It was an achievement Kristen’s hubby Dax Shepard immediately celebrated with this pic – of Kristen’s naked yoga workout.
Dax posted this picture of Kristen doing naked yoga to celebrate her Emmy nod
Dax Shepard and the newly-Emmy-nominated Kristen Bell (Image: WireImage)
I’m not married, so maybe I’m wrong… But should Dax really have gone so very public with his congratulations? A great big bear bare hug may have been the better choice.
The poor BBC now has an entire as-yet-unreleased pre-recorded series of MasterChef with not one but TWO disgraced hosts. That’s got to be tough to swallow. It also explains the reasoning behind one of its latest new hires. For even wholesome Blue Peter has had its share of scandalous stars…
So when faced with finding its latest prestigious presenter, the Beeb hired someone who’s been nothing but a safe pair of hands their whole career. Some might even go as far to say he’s the perfect corporate puppet.….(see below).
CBBC stalwart Hacker T. Dog has landed a top job on Blue Peter, no strings attached. He’ll join Shini Muthukrishnan, Abby Cook, Joel Mawhinney, and Henry the Labrador as the first non-human presenter(Image: PA)
FISHING FOR INSULTS? THURSDAY
Gregg and John might be in for a grilling over their alleged behaviour, but another under-fire celeb, Sacha Baron Cohen, was probably feeling a little, um, roasted this week. Yes, his actress ex-wife Isla Fisher has not had the most amicable of splits with Da Ali G and Borat actor. So some social media users took her quip on Instagram to be a tiny dig at his expense (literally). The Confessions Of A Shopaholic star wrote: “For all the men who say ‘Why buy the cow when you can get the milk for free?’, here’s an update for you. “Nowadays 80% of women are against marriage. Why?
In happier times: Isla Fisher gets her hands on a cardboard cut-out of her then-husband Borat, aka Sacha Baron Cohen(Image: COPYRIGHT UNKNOWN)
“Because women realise it’s not worth buying an entire pig… just to get a little sausage.” No porkies there! I’d rather bring home the bacon alone than be stuck with a man who’s the literal wurst. So, bravo, Isla! That took proper chops.
FACING FACTS FRIDAY
You can’t make this one up. And to be fair, whatever you say about Katie Price, at least she can take the mickey out of herself. Which is why she’s made a startling admission this week. Apparently Katie was travelling and got pulled over by security at passport control – because she’s had so many trips under the knife, the scanners couldn’t recognise her passport photo. Yes, Katie might have been accused of being two-faced in the past, but, as she’ll admit herself, she’s been through at least 10 of them now. On the upside, it’s something to add to her CV next time she’s bankrupt. After all, everyone wants their staff to multi-faceted nowadays.
PICTURE OF THE WEEK
She’s always been a woman with Klass. So it’s good to see Myleene hasn’t let her newly-award MBE go to her head. Ahem.
Myleene Klass MBE is keeping things real as she takes a quick soak(Image: INSTAGRAM)
Yes, Myleene was presented the honour this week after her tireless charity work, including raising the awareness of the emotional toll of miscarriage. But it looks like the Hear’Say singer might be taking the honour a little too literally.
For the morning after receiving the medal – alongside fellow honouree Leona Lewis OBE – Myleene posted this bathtime snap.
Umm….It looks like you’ve got a little something in your hair, Myleene. To be fair, it could have been worse. She could have posted a snap of her in her tiara….sitting on the throne.
JESS A QUICKIE:
Myleene’s not the only one having some bathroom fun. Charlotte Crosby decided to promote her new fiction tome by sitting in a bath of books. It makes sense: she’s always swimming with novel ideas.* *Sorry I couldn’t help myself
I mean, it’s probably better than a bath of baked beans, but it’s not what they mean when they say relax in the tub with a good book, Charlotte!
What do you think? Let me know in the comments or via IG/X @JessicaBoulton
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The BBC announced earlier this week that presenter John Torode would not have his MasterChef contract renewed following an upheld complaint over alleged racist language
23:45, 17 Jul 2025Updated 23:46, 17 Jul 2025
It was announced recently that John Torode won’t have his contract for MasterChef renewed(Image: Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)
Production company Banijay said on Tuesday that an investigation into his co-star Gregg Wallace‘s behaviour by firm Lewis Silkin had “substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against” John, 59. John however said in a statement: “I have no recollection of what I’m accused of.”
It’s now been suggested that John, who had co-hosted the cooking show since 2005, used the N-word on two occasions, including at an gathering after work some years ago. John is said to vehemently deny ever using the racial slur though.
The Sun reports that he repeated lyrics, containing the N-word, from Kanye West‘s song Gold Digger at an after-work gathering six or seven years ago. He’s then said to have used the word again whilst speaking to a member of the MasterChef production team.
John allegedly used the word a second time when speaking to a member of the colleague, described as a “pal” who reportedly didn’t take offence. According to the outlet, the person who raised the complaint on that occasion is said to have been understood to have overheard the conversation. His friend reportedly thought John used the slur as an “example” and “apologised afterwards”.
The Sun adds that it’s been told that John vehemently denies ever using the N-word, whether that be in song lyrics or otherwise. A source said that he’s “utterly devastated” and “just wants to clear his name” amid the scandal.
It was announced this week that John Torode (right), pictured with his wife Lisa Faulkner (left), won’t have his MasterChef contract renewed(Image: Getty Images)
A source told the outlet that “one of the allegations” is that he used the N-word while repeating Gold Digger during a gathering with some colleagues when filming had concluded. They said: “John is adamant he would never have used the N-word and only knows the radio version of the song which says, ‘Now I ain’t sayin’ she a gold digger, but she ain’t messin’ with no broke, broke’.”
The source, who said that he only knows the clean version of the song, claimed that the complainant “didn’t say anything” at the time and that John found out that the issue had been raised a few weeks ago. They added that he doesn’t “recall it” and said: “He insists he would never have repeated the N-word in those lyrics because he only knows the radio edit of that song.”
Addressing the apparent second allegation, a source told the Sun that he did not recall using the N-word, saying that he is “adamant” that he would “never” use that word in a conversation. They claim that someone who “overheard it” complained, not the person he’s alleged to have said it to, whom he’s said to have been “close” to whilst working together.
The source said: “Even the person who John was supposedly having the overheard conversation with said he had mentioned the word in reference and apologised straight away.” They added that he John “cannot recall” the alleged conversation and “would never” use the racial slur in question.
They said that he “knows it is unacceptable”. The source further suggested to the outlet that during a meeting over the complaint John was in “disbelief” because the presenter “insisted” that he would “never” had used the N-word.
A source also said that John “abhors” that kind of language and doesn’t recall “reciting a racist slur in a lyric” or “directing one” to a colleague at work that he “considered a friend”. They said that he is “devastated” by the situation.
It comes following a complaint against John over alleged racist language that was upheld amid an investigation into the behaviour of his co-star Gregg Wallace(Image: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Earlier this week, the BBC said: “John Torode has identified himself as having an upheld allegation of using racist language against him. This allegation, which involves an extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace, was investigated and substantiated by the independent investigation led by the law firm, Lewis Silkin. John Torode denies the allegation.
“He has stated he has no recollection of the alleged incident and does not believe that it happened. He also says that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. The BBC takes this upheld finding extremely seriously. We will not tolerate racist language of any kind and, as we have already said, we told Banijay UK, the makers of MasterChef, that action must be taken. John Torode’s contract on MasterChef will not be renewed.”
Shortly after, John posted in a statement: “Although I haven’t heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay – I am seeing and reading that I’ve been ‘sacked’ from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I’m accused of. The enquiry could not even state the date or year of when I am meant to have said something wrong.
“I’d hoped that I’d have some say in my exit from a show I’ve worked on since its relaunch in 2005, but events in last few days seem to have prevented that. Over the past few months, I have been considering my life and the shape of it now and in the future.
“Celebrity MasterChef, which I recently filmed with Grace Dent along with two fantastic Christmas specials will be my last. Personally, I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else. For whoever takes over, love it as I have.
“I will watch fondly from afar as I now focus on the many other exciting projects that I have been working towards. My tummy will be grateful for a rest after 20 years of eating, but what a joy it has been. Life is everchanging and ever moving & sometimes personal happiness and fulfilment lay elsewhere. Thank you for the many years of MasterChef.”
As previously reported, production company Banijay said: “The legal team at Lewis Silkin that investigated the allegations relating to Gregg Wallace also substantiated an accusation of highly offensive racist language against John Torode which occurred in 2018. This matter has been formally discussed with John Torode by Banijay UK, and whilst we note that John says he does not recall the incident, Lewis Silkin have upheld the very serious complaint. Banijay UK and the BBC are agreed that we will not renew his contract on MasterChef.”
Prior to the news of his departure, John had confirmed that he was the subject of an upheld complaint. He said: “For the sake of transparency I confirm that I am the individual who is alleged to have used racial language on one occasion.
“The allegation is that I did so sometime in 2018 or 2019, in a social situation, and that the person I was speaking with did not believe that it was intended in a malicious way and that I apologised immediately afterwards.
“I have absolutely no recollection of any of this, and I do not believe that it happened. However, I want to be clear that I’ve always had the view that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. I’m shocked and saddened by the allegation as I would never wish to cause anyone any offence.”
The future of BBC’s MasterChef has been revealed after both hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode have been axed from the popular show
18:42, 17 Jul 2025Updated 18:42, 17 Jul 2025
MasterChef’s future revealed after Gregg Wallace and John Torode’s double sacking (Image: BBC/Shine TV)
The future of BBC’s MasterChef has been ‘revealed’ as – John Torode and Gregg Wallace‘s final series will reportedly still air – despite their double axing.
Last December, it was reported that Grace Dent would be joining John Torode in the kitchen for the next series of Celebrtity MasterChef after Gregg Wallace stepped back from the show following allegations against him. John and Gregg had also filmed an amateur series – as BBC and Banijay UK intend to still broadcast both.
Gregg Wallace’s position on MasterChef became “untenable” after 45 out of 83 allegations of inappropriate behaviour were upheld following a seven-month investigation. John was also axed from the show earlier this week after he confirmed he was the person alleged to have used racist language. However, he said he had no memory of making the comment and denies it ever happened.
John and Gregg’s final series of the BBC show will reportedly still air – as well as the Celebrity version(Image: BBC/Shine TV)
The series, which has already been filmed and features celebrities including Love Island‘s Uma Jammeh and TV personality Ashley Cain, will reportedly still be shown on the broadcaster “once the dust has settled”.
The report comes after BBC Director-General Tim Davie announced that the impact on the show’s participants – would be a factor in whether the shows come to air or not.
“These past eight months have been truly hellish for all concerned,” a source told The Sun. “The BBC and Banijay have faced a moral and professional dilemma like never before. Obviously Gregg’s case was more clear cut, but John being dragged through the mud wasn’t what anyone wanted or expected to happen.
“But at the same time, and as a publicly funded body, the BBC has a duty to both provide entertainment as well as fulfil its obligations to cast, crew, contestants and viewers alike.”
John and Grace’s Celebrity MasterChef series will reportedly still air(Image: PA)
The source then went on to say that hundreds of people who were involved in or worked on the shows would be “so bitterly disappointed” if they cancelled the show. They then claimed that the show will air “once the dust has settled and all the fuss died down.”
The BBC has been contacted by The Mirror for comment.
In a lengthy statement following John’s axe, the BBC said: “John Torode has identified himself as having an upheld allegation of using racist language against him. This allegation, which involves an extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace, was investigated and substantiated by the independent investigation led by the law firm, Lewis Silkin. John Torode denies the allegation.
“He has stated he has no recollection of the alleged incident and does not believe that it happened. He also says that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment.
“The BBC takes this upheld finding extremely seriously. We will not tolerate racist language of any kind and, as we have already said, we told Banijay UK, the makers of MasterChef, that action must be taken. John Torode’s contract on MasterChef will not be renewed.”
John Torode is preparing to take legal action against the BBC after he was sacked from MasterChef, sources have revealed to us. He was sacked from the show after an allegation against him using of him using “an extremely offensive racist term”
18:08, 16 Jul 2025Updated 18:08, 16 Jul 2025
John Torode has been dropped from MasterChef(Image: BBC)
John Torode is preparing to take legal action against the BBC after he was sacked from MasterChef. He was ditched from the cooking show after an allegation against him using “an extremely offensive racist term” was upheld.
John said he had “no recollection” of it happening – and in a statement told how he’d only found out his contract had been terminated after the Beeb and producers Banijay put out the news. Now sources close to the star say he’s speaking to employment lawyers as he fights to “clear his name.”
“John is preparing to launch the lawsuit against the BBC,” tells the insider. “He wants to pursue them for unfair dismissal. He’s telling people there is no proof of his supposed comment. It was not in a work capacity, it was just hearsay. John is determined to clear his name.”
Torode, 59, followed his MasterChef co-host Gregg Wallace out of the door at the BBC for allegedly using racist language.
Torode said he had no recollection of using the “extremely offensive racist term”(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/Shutterstock)
The Australian star continues to insist he had no knowledge of the “offensive” comment he was accused of making, despite lawyers Lewis Silkin upholding the complaint, said to be from 2018 in their independent investigation into the series.
It came after the firm upheld 45 out of 83 claims against Wallace, 60, including “unwanted physical contact”, “being in a state of undress”, bullying and inappropriate jokes.
Torode himself revealed he was the subject on an allegation, saying: “I do not believe that it happened.” The source said the move took the Beeb by surprise.
“John is a tough talking Aussie and does not stand to ceremony. The BBC were not expecting John Torode to jump the gun about the comment and make a statement.”
MasterChef production company Banijay UK said it had discussed the matter with Torode and with the BBC and that they “are agreed that we will not renew his contract on MasterChef “.
Torode and Wallace hosted MasterChef together(Image: SOPA Images, SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
But in a statement released on Tuesday night, Torode said: “Although I haven’t heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay, I am seeing and reading I’ve been ‘sacked’ from MasterChef. I repeat that I have no recollection of what I’m accused of. The enquiry could not even state the date or year of when I am meant to have said something wrong.”
He said Celebrity MasterChef, which he recently filmed with food critic Grace Dent, along with two Christmas specials, would be his last. “Personally, I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else.”
Speaking to BBC News on Tuesday afternoon, BBC Director General Davie described the allegation against Torode as “a serious racist term which does not get to be acceptable in any way shape or form. It’s really important we are taking this seriously,” he said. “We’ve drawn a line in the sand.”
It comes as the Mirror can reveal ITV are set to stand by John Torode and give his TV career a lifeline. Multiple sources at the channel said there were “no current changes to scheduling” for the weekend. This means the third episode of John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen will go out at 11.40am on Saturday. He hosts the show with wife Lisa Faulkner and it is the 10th anniversary series on air.
One ITV source said: “I think we will keep going with the show. We don’t know the details of the BBC issue and have never had any trouble with him ourselves. We obviously have our own complaints handling procedure and a code of conduct for talent at ITV. There have been no issues raised with John so the series is set to continue to air.”
Torode, 59, followed his MasterChef co-host Gregg Wallace out of the door at the BBC(Image: Getty)
Another source said the developments have been “hard for Lisa”, who is “conscious of their ITV show and doesn’t want to jeopardise that.” Torode’s dismissal comes as the BBC confirmed that several members of staff have been sacked following a recent review into the corporation’s culture.
Samir Shah, chairman of the BBC, acknowledged that some powerful individuals still make life “unbearable” for their colleagues.
Speaking as the corporation released its annual report on Tuesday, he acknowledged that over the past year there had been a “string of revelations” about abuses of power at the corporation. Our staff are dedicated, hardworking and treat each other with respect,” he said. “However, there are pockets in the organisation where this is not the case. There are still places where powerful individuals – on and off-screen – can abuse that power to make life for their colleagues unbearable.”
Director-general Tim Davie insisted he can lead the BBC in the “right way” after the series of scandals. The corporation has been criticised for recent failings, which include breaching its own editorial guidelines and allegations surrounding the former MasterChef presenters Gregg Wallace and John Torode.
Asked after the release of the 2024/2025 annual report whether he would resign, he said: “I simply think I’m in a place where I can work to improve dramatically the BBC and lead it in the right way.
“There’s enormous, massive noise and different opinions about what we should do, but I think we have been clear. We are making the right decisions. We’re being transparent. I would also say that… I’ve set a very clear stall out in terms of impartiality.”
Question marks now hang over the full recording of BBC1 ’s amateur version of MasterChef, put on ice over the probe into Wallace, and the 20th celebrity series, with 20 faces yet to be named, plus judge Grace Dent.
But Davie insisted the show would survive. “It’s a great programme, well loved by audiences. It is bigger than individuals. It can survive and prosper, but we’ve got to make sure we’re in the right place in terms of the culture of the show.”
Chef John Torode was reportedly axed from MasterChef yesterday after BBC boss Tim Davie said no star was bigger than the show – and it’s now emerged how John found out
MasterChef presenter and celeb chef, John Torode, will appear at Cheltenham Food Festival 2022 in Montpellier Gardens between June 24 – 27.
Masterchef’s John Torode was left in shock yesterday after he found out he had been unceremoniously dropped from the popular cooking series, having discovered his fate on the BBC website.
The unexpected ousting followed comments from BBC boss Tim Davie, who stated that no presenter is bigger than the show itself, as reported by The Sun.
In a remarkable turn of events, it emerged that the Aussie chef’s representative was given a mere 11 minutes’ heads-up before the news was made public, reports the Express.
MASTERCHEF star John Torode was left reeling yesterday after discovering he had been brutally axed(Image: Getty)
An source shared:
“John’s agent received a call 11 minutes before the statements went out and hadn’t had a chance to call him.
“He read about it on the BBC News website. Obviously he’s heartbroken.
“He feels he’s been made a scapegoat off the back of the Gregg Wallace report.”
Despite the controversy, Torode took to Instagram with a resolute message: “Although I haven’t heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay – I am seeing and reading that I’ve been ‘sacked’ from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I’m accused of.
“I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else.”
The shocking report into the conduct of MasterChef co-host Gregg Wallace, 60, validated an astonishing 45 out of 83 complaints dating from 2005 to 2024, culminating in his own spectacular downfall.
As we disclosed yesterday, BBC executives had insisted at the weekend that Torode step down, alleging he was grappling with mental health problems. He declined to do so.
Former MasterChef judge John Torode reportedly learned of his fate via the BBC News website after the corporation and Bandijay released a statement
23:13, 15 Jul 2025Updated 23:25, 15 Jul 2025
John Torode ‘found out about MasterChef axe on BBC News’ as star claims he wasn’t told
John Torode reportedly learned of the end of his MasterChef career through the BBC News website. The TV chef recently claimed he was never contacted by the BBC or MasterChef’s production company about their decision not to renew his contract on the cooking programme he’s been part of for 20 years.
Last night, Torode confirmed he was the person alleged to have used racist language amid an investigation into his former co-star Gregg Wallace’s behaviour. Torode claimed he had no memory of making the comment and denies it ever happened, but the BBC and Banijay both released statements on the situation as they confirmed he was axed from the programme.
He reportedly found out via the BBC News website(Image: BBC/Shine TV)
Banijay said that they took “this matter incredibly seriously” as they detailed the “highly offensive racist language”. The 59-year-old soon took to his Instagram page to claim they never reached out to him about his contract.
In a statement shared on social media, he claimed: “Although I haven’t heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay – I am seeing and reading that I’ve been “sacked” from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I’m accused of.
“The enquiry could not even state the date or year of when I am meant to have said something wrong.
Torode was axed from his role on MasterChef(Image: BBC)
“I’d hoped that I’d have some say in my exit from a show I’ve worked on since its relaunch in 2005, but events in last few days seem to have prevented that.”
And now, a source claim Torode was “blindsided” by the news and learned of his fate through the BBC News website.
“John’s agent received a call 11 minutes before the statements went out and hadn’t had a chance to call him,” an insider claimed to The Sun. “He read about it on the BBC News website.”
The Mirror have reached out to his reps for comment.
Speaking of their decision to axe Torode, the BBC said on Tuesday: “John Torode has identified himself as having an upheld allegation of using racist language against him. This allegation, which involves an extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace, was investigated and substantiated by the independent investigation led by the law firm, Lewis Silkin. John Torode denies the allegation.
“He has stated he has no recollection of the alleged incident and does not believe that it happened. He also says that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment.
“The BBC takes this upheld finding extremely seriously. We will not tolerate racist language of any kind and, as we have already said, we told Banijay UK, the makers of MasterChef, that action must be taken. John Torode’s contract on MasterChef will not be renewed.”
BBC director-general Tim Davie had earlier condemned the “serious racist term” the Australian-born presenter was alleged to have used, after it was announced his contract on MasterChef will not be renewed.
Torode began presenting the BBC cooking contest alongside Gregg Wallace in 2005.
On Monday night, Torode confirmed Torode was the subject of an allegation of using racist language that was upheld as part of a review carried out by law firm Lewis Silkin into Wallace’s behaviour while filming the programme over 19 years.
In 2022, Torode was made an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours, for services to food and charity.
He became a familiar face to TV audiences in 1996 as the resident chef on ITV’s This Morning, before joining MasterChef alongside Wallace when it was known as MasterChef Goes Large.
