UK MasterChef host steps down pending investigation

Gregg Wallace, UK's MasterChef host, has stepped down from his role on the popular cooking show following allegations of inappropriate comments made over a span of 17 years.

The 60-year-old TV personality expressed his gratitude to supporters in a short video posted on Instagram, thanking those who reached out during this challenging time.

"I would like to thank all the people getting in touch, reaching out and showing their support. It's good of you. Thank you very much," Wallace said in the video.

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The allegations against Wallace surfaced this week, with broadcaster Kirsty Wark among the 13 people who have come forward. Wark, a former MasterChef celebrity contestant, described incidents where Wallace allegedly used inappropriate language in front of a group, making others uncomfortable.

Wark, who was speaking to the BBC in an interview, said: "There were two occasions in particular where he used inappropriate language in front of a number of people and it wasn’t as if anyone engaged with this. It was completely one-way traffic."

MasterChef's production company, Banijay UK, is now conducting an external review into the claims. The company confirmed that the allegations were brought to the BBC's attention this week and involve past misconduct during Wallace’s involvement in various programs.

Banijay UK has stated that while these complaints were not raised directly with the show's producers, the company felt it necessary to conduct an impartial investigation.

"Gregg Wallace will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef and is committed to fully cooperating throughout the process," Banijay UK said in a statement. The company emphasised that staff welfare is a priority and that clear channels for raising concerns are always available on set.

Gregg Wallace has been a fixture on MasterChef since 2005, serving as both a co-presenter and judge. His departure, though temporary, has shaken the show's loyal fan base, as Wallace has become one of the faces most associated with the program.

The investigation is ongoing, and both Wallace and Banijay UK have pledged full cooperation. Wallace's legal team continues to assert his innocence, stating that the claims against him are unfounded.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the allegations will impact Wallace’s future in television and his long-standing career in the culinary world.