Gregg Wallace Harassment Allegations: 2022 Letter to BBC Sparks Controversy
MasterChef host Gregg Wallace faces serious allegations of inappropriate behavior. A letter from producer Dawn Elrick claims Wallace made lewd comments and requested personal phone numbers from female staff. This letter was shared on Instagram and details harassment experiences within the TV industry.
Wallace is also under scrutiny for inappropriate sexual remarks reported by 13 individuals over a 17-year period. His lawyers deny these accusations, asserting that he does not engage in sexually harassing behavior.
The letter highlights a pattern of discomfort experienced by female production members when interacting with Wallace. It mentions incidents like asking for phone numbers and making inappropriate comments while being topless. Elrick stresses the distress these situations cause women in production.
Elrick submitted the allegations to the BBC with backing from the industry union Bectu. She stated that the BBC suggested individual complaints be made, but she received no further communication regarding her report.
In response, the BBC emphasized its commitment to addressing issues promptly. They stated that they would not comment on ongoing investigations involving Wallace.
Recently, additional accusations against Wallace emerged in media reports. His behavior on other shows, including “Gregg Wallace’s Big Weekends,” is also under investigation by Channel 5’s production company, Rumpus Media.
Banijay UK, the parent company overseeing MasterChef, has initiated an external review into the allegations. They assure that staff safety is a top priority and welcomed feedback from anyone wishing to raise concerns.
As these allegations unfold, Wallace has stepped back from his role on MasterChef and is cooperating with the investigation.
