Food critic Grace Dent has taken Gregg Wallace’s place on this season of Celebrity MasterChef, however fans of the show are puzzled as to why John Torode still appears
The Australian chef was axed from the BBC show after facing accusations of using racist language
Celebrity MasterChef returned to our screens on Monday, November 17, with a new line up of stars including Welsh rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones. But it is the presence of John Torode which is causing people to ask questions. The Australian chef was dismissed from the programme earlier this year after accusations he had used racist language behind the scenes.
That followed the removal of his co-host Gregg Wallace who had over 40 complaints regarding his behaviour, including inappropriate sexual remarks and unwanted physical contact. Food critic Grace Dent has taken Gregg’s place on this season of Celebrity MasterChef, however fans of the show are puzzled as to why John is still in attendance.
The reason Torode appears is because Celebrity MasterChef was recorded earlier this year prior to Torode’s dismissal from the programme. For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter
At the time, a BBC representative stated: “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.”
The BBC chose to proceed with broadcasting MasterChef in August, featuring both Wallace and Torode, out of consideration for the contestants who had participated in the show.
Last month, the BBC announced it would also broadcast the newest series of Celebrity MasterChef, which features John Torode, who has since been dismissed from his role.
The BBC spokesperson said: “Banijay UK has consulted the celebrities, contestants and guests featured and all have confirmed that they are happy for the shows to be aired.
“As we have said previously, these are not straightforward decisions. We have approached this with care and consideration for all involved and we appreciate not everyone will agree with us.”
This current series of Celebrity MasterChef represents John Torode’s last appearance as host of the BBC One culinary programme. From next year, restaurant critic Grace Dent will assume presenting responsibilities, working alongside chef Anna Waugh.
When it was announced that Grace would be joining him on Celebrity MasterChef, John said: “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.
“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.”
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You can watch Celebrity Masterchef on BBC One and BBC iPlayer on Tuesday, December 2, and Wednesday, December 3, from 8pm, and Thursday, December 4, from 9pm.
