GREGG WALLACES STEPS AWAY FROM MASTERCHEF AMID INVESTIGATION INTO MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS

MasterChef presenter and judge Gregg Wallace has 'stepped away' from MasterChef after 'historical allegations of misconduct' where made to the BBC.

Producers Banijay said in a statement: "This week the BBC received complaints from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows...

"Whilst these complainants have not raised the allegations directly with our show producers or parent company Banijay UK, we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate. Whilst these are historical allegations, incidences brought to our attention where these expectations are not met, are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately...

A BBC spokesperson added: "We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and we have robust processes in place to deal with them. We are always clear that any behaviour which falls below the standards expected by the BBC will not be tolerated...

"Where an individual is contracted directly by an external production company we share any complaints or concerns with that company and we will always support them when addressing them."

Meanwhile, Celebrity MasterChef will return to screens later in December with two festive specials. The first will see Emmerdale actor Amy Walsh; comedian Shazia Mirza; reality star Luca Bish and popstar and lead singer of The Wanted, Max George did themselves proud in 2023, but are now back with their sights set on the glittery Golden Whisk Trophy!

Their first challenge is the Secret Santa Mystery Box, each containing the recipe for a sensational seasonal treat. The stars must all crise to the occasion for a special Christmas guest judge – their fellow 2023 contestant and champion, Duncan James – who won’t want to leave feeling blue! Next, the four must cook their ultimate Christmas dinner.

They can waltz, they can foxtrot, they can jive, but can they cook? The second one-off special opens the floor to four of Strictly Come Dancing’s much-loved professionals.

Adding an extra sprinkling of glitz and glamour to the stoves and competing to be crowned MasterChef Festive Cha-Cha-Champion are Amy Dowden MBE, Gorka Marquez, Kai Widdrington and Nancy Xu.

John and Gregg reveal that a mystery guest has set the first challenge – unbeknownst to the dancers, it’s Strictly judge, Motsi Mabuse! Instead of judging their moves, she will be critiquing their cooking as they create some of her favourite festive dishes. Next, they must dazzle John and Gregg with their best two-course menu worthy of a great celebration.

As the Strictly pros switch from dance-off to cook-off, expect glitter, fabulous food, and culinary moves. Eat your heart out, glitterball, these dancers are aiming for the MasterChef Festive Champion Glittery Whisk!

MasterChef Festive specials air this December on BBC One.