Gregg Wallace Allegations: Over Half Substantiated
Gregg Wallace Dropped by BBC Amidst “Substantial Number of Allegations” of Inappropriate Conduct
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The BBC has announced it will not work with television presenter Gregg Wallace in the future, following an examination into a significant number of allegations of inappropriate conduct spanning nearly two decades. The broadcaster stated that Wallace’s alleged behavior “falls below the values of the BBC and the expectations we have for anyone who works with or for us.”
BBC Confirms no Future Working Relationship with Wallace
In a statement released today, the BBC confirmed it has “informed” Wallace of its decision. the investigation reportedly details a ”substantial number of allegations of inappropriate conduct spanning 19 years.” The broadcaster acknowledged that “opportunities were missed to address this behaviour,both by the production companies running MasterChef and the BBC,” and accepted that “more could and should have been done sooner.”
The BBC emphasized its commitment to a zero-tolerance policy, stating, “We want to reaffirm, there is no place for the abuse of power, unacceptable behaviour or language at the BBC, or shows made for the BBC.”
Future of Unaired MasterChef Series Uncertain
The BBC also addressed the fate of a series of MasterChef filmed last year, which has yet to be broadcast.A final decision on its airing has not yet been made. The broadcaster acknowledged the disappointment this may cause for fans and participants, and confirmed that banijay UK will consult further with the amateur contestants at the appropriate time.
History of Allegations and Wallace’s Response
Last year, a BBC News investigation brought to light a series of allegations against Wallace, including inappropriate sexual comments and alleged inappropriate behaviour, made by 13 individuals who had worked with him across various shows over a 17-year period. Notably, former Newsnight host Kirsty Wark was among those who came forward.
At the time, a statement from wallace’s lawyers asserted that the claims of him engaging in sexually harassing behaviour were “entirely false.”
in December, Wallace addressed the complaints in an Instagram video, attributing them to “a handful of middle-class women of a certain age.” This statement drew significant backlash, prompting an apology for any “offense” or “upset” caused and a declaration that he would ”take some time out.”
More recently, ahead of the official publication of the external review, Wallace posted on Instagram on July 8th, claiming he had been cleared of the “most serious and sensational accusations” against him.He also revealed that his neurodiversity had been “formally (been) diagnosed as autism,” a condition he stated was “suspected and discussed by colleagues across countless seasons of MasterChef.”
The presenter’s social media posts and the current report emerge as claims from 50 or more people have surfaced, with the majority alleging inappropriate sexual comments and 11 women accusing him of inappropriate sexual behaviour, including groping and touching.
Gregg Wallace’s Extensive Broadcasting career
Gregg Wallace began his broadcasting career as the original presenter of the BBC show Saturday Kitchen in 2002. He has since appeared in numerous popular programmes, including Eat Well For Less?, Inside The Factory, Turn Back Time, harvest, and Supermarket Secrets. However, he is most widely recognized for his long-standing role as the presenter of the MasterChef franchise, including MasterChef, MasterChef: The Professionals, and Celebrity MasterChef.
The BBC’s decision marks a significant turning point in the career of the well-known television personality, signaling the end of his association with the public broadcaster amidst serious allegations of misconduct.