MasterChef was pulled off air earlier this year after 13 women made complaints about presenter Gregg Wallace, 60 – but bosses are still holding out hope it could be shown in some formNicola Methven TV Editor and Michael D. Carroll02:51, 10 Jul 2025Pic shows: Gregg Wallace on Masterchef in 2011 where Wark finished second
As Kirsty Wark Newsnight presenter
Tells BBC News of her experience of Gregg Wallaces sexualised behaviour
23.11.24
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07917221968Despite Gregg Wallace’s departure from MasterChef, BBC and Banijay executives believe the pre-recorded series might still be salvageable. One possibility is that the £8million cookery competition, initially intended for 24 hour-long episodes on BBC1, could be released exclusively on iPlayer.The decision on its future rests with BBC Director General Tim Davie, who must determine whether to air it on BBC1, iPlayer, or cancel it altogether. The BBC stated that a decision will be made after the release of the Lewis Silkin law firm’s report later this week.The Daily Star reached out to Banijay for comment.Inside informationAn insider revealed: “Once the report comes out, we will all know what the legal review has found. Gregg has claimed that many of the more serious allegations against him have not been upheld, and has apologised for the rude and inappropriate language he used, causing complaints that were upheld. The feeling is the series is not dead yet – there are high hopes that it could yet see the light of day.”The 24-part pre-recorded series was put on hold earlier this year after 13 women came forward with complaints about presenter Wallace, 60. Since then, BBC News reported that 50 additional allegations have been made against him, ranging from inappropriate language to groping and sexual intimidation, which he strongly denies.Sources saySources close to the show, which was recorded last year, claim it would be “impossible” to completely remove him from the programme. As a judge alongside John Torode, Wallace is a crucial part of the format, and editing the series to reduce his screen time has also been deemed unfeasible, reports the Mirror.Article continues belowThis development comes amid speculation that the series winner is contemplating legal action due to their victory not being aired. An insider revealed: “For that person, the series not being shown has massive ramifications. They may well have wanted to launch a cookery career off the back of it and now feel that this controversy is preventing that opportunity – through no fault of their own.”For contestants, particularly those who reach the final and the winner, participating in MasterChef is a significant opportunity. The show has been life-changing for many individuals who have gone on to pursue careers in cooking.”These 24 episodes are finished and have been delivered to the BBC. To not show them would be a huge waste of licence fee payers’ money,” an insider stated.Gregg Wallace(Image: More