Producers of the popular TV show MasterChef have hired a leading London law firm to investigate allegations of sexually inappropriate behaviour made against presenter Gregg Wallace.
The claims span a 17-year period and have been made by at least 13 individuals, including former Newsnight host Kirsty Wark.
Wallace, 60, has voluntarily stepped down from his role as the host of MasterChef while the investigation into these historic allegations of misconduct takes place.
Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef, confirmed that Wallace is fully committed to cooperating with the inquiry.
The investigation will be led by the well-regarded City law firm Lewis Silkin. Banijay UK expressed confidence in the firm’s ability to conduct a thorough, impartial investigation, emphasising that all information would be handled with sensitivity and confidentiality.
The accusations against Wallace range from making inappropriate sexual comments to more serious claims, including jokes about rape, “lesbian jokes”, and making explicit remarks about his sex life. Some allegations also involve Wallace taking off his shirt in front of colleagues.
Wallace’s legal team has strongly denied the accusations, asserting that the claims of sexual harassment are “entirely false,” as reported by BBC News.
Among the accusers, Kirsty Wark shared her experience with the BBC, recalling incidents during her time on Celebrity MasterChef in 2011.
She described Wallace relaying sexualised jokes and stories in front of contestants and crew, noting that the comments were “really, really in the wrong place.”
Kate Tomas, a former contestant on MasterChef in 2008, also accused Wallace of bullying and sexual harassment. Another contestant claimed that Wallace groped her while she was cooking on set.
Additionally, Sir Rod Stewart made public allegations about Wallace’s behaviour, stating that the TV presenter humiliated his wife, Penny Lancaster, during her appearance on Celebrity MasterChef in 2021.
Rumpus Media, which produces Wallace’s Big Weekends on Channel 5, has stated that it does not tolerate inappropriate behaviour in any of its productions.
The company confirmed that appropriate duty of care procedures were in place during filming and that any concerns raised would be thoroughly investigated.
The BBC has reiterated its commitment to addressing any issues raised, stating that any behaviour falling below the high standards expected of its presenters would not be tolerated.
However, a BBC spokesperson added that it would be inappropriate to comment further while Banijay’s investigation is ongoing.
In response to the allegations, Wallace shared a message of thanks on his Instagram, expressing gratitude to those who have shown their support during the investigation.
