John Torode has spoken out just hours after his shocking departure from the BBC’s MasterChef, ending a nearly two-decade association with the beloved cooking show. His exit followed closely on the heels of fellow presenter Gregg Wallace’s dismissal, both stemming from a recent investigation into their conduct. At 59, Torode is now facing serious allegations of using racist language—a claim he adamantly denies.
In a heartfelt Instagram post on July 15, Torode expressed his surprise at the developments. “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,” he wrote. The inquiry, he claims, couldn’t even specify when the alleged incident occurred.
He lamented, “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 recent events seem to have prevented that.” Torode confirmed that his final appearance would be in the upcoming Celebrity MasterChef along with a couple of festive specials. “I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else,” he wrote, expressing gratitude and optimism for what’s next.
In his statement, he shared, “My tummy will be grateful for the rest after 20 years of eating, but what a joy it has been. Life is ever-changing, and sometimes personal happiness lies elsewhere.”
Torode first began co-presenting MasterChef with Wallace in 2005. Latest reports reveal that Wallace’s alleged misconduct included numerous allegations; Torode’s was substantiated as part of a review conducted by law firm Lewis Silkin, which examined Wallace’s behavior. Banijay UK has confirmed that the legal team upheld the serious complaint against Torode regarding the use of “highly offensive racist language” in 2018.
A spokesperson for Banijay UK stated, “This matter has been formally discussed with John Torode, and while we note that John says he does not recall the incident, Lewis Silkin has upheld the very serious complaint. Both Banijay UK and the BBC have agreed to not renew his contract on MasterChef.”
Amidst the scandal, BBC Director General Tim Davie affirmed the future of the culinary competition. He emphasized the show’s enduring popularity, stating, “I absolutely think it does [have a future on the BBC beyond 2028].” In his remarks at the BBC’s annual report launch, he clarified, “A great program that’s well-loved by audiences is much bigger than individuals.”
Despite the turmoil, Davie affirmed that MasterChef could thrive as they re-evaluate its direction, particularly concerning the series filmed last autumn with the now-axed presenters. He noted the complexity of the situation, highlighting the importance of considering the amateur chefs who’ve poured their hearts into the program.
“We need to consult with them and think about the audience, then make a decision,” he added, as the BBC navigates this challenging phase.