MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace is facing new allegations of inappropriate sexual behavior after stepping down from the show last week. Multiple women have come forward with claims of misconduct, adding to previous allegations revealed in a BBC News investigation.
One woman, Lisa (a pseudonym), who worked on the BBC show Eat Well For Less in 2015, described an incident where Wallace allegedly touched her inappropriately in a supermarket. She claims he brushed past her at a checkout, touched her inappropriately, and made a suggestive comment. Lisa felt uncomfortable but, like many young professionals, felt unable to escalate the issue at the time.
Another woman, Anna, who worked on MasterChef in 2015, alleged an incident in Wallace’s dressing room where he was partially undressed and appeared to deliberately expose himself. She reported feeling shocked and embarrassed, and mentioned the incident to production colleagues but did not pursue further action.
A third woman, Sarah, reported an encounter at an event in 2022 where Wallace allegedly made unwanted physical advances, including putting his arm around her, attempting to hold her hand, and groping her bottom in a lift.
These new allegations follow a previous BBC News investigation that included accounts from 13 people across five different programs. The allegations include inappropriate sexual comments and behavior, with some high-profile individuals like former Newsnight presenter Kirsty Wark also speaking out.
In response to the mounting allegations, Wallace initially made controversial comments suggesting the complaints came from “a handful of middle-class women of a certain age,” which drew criticism, including from a Downing Street spokesperson who described his remarks as “inappropriate and misogynistic.”
Wallace subsequently apologized, stating he was under significant stress and emotional strain. He acknowledged the need to “take some time out” while an investigation is ongoing.
The BBC and production company Banijay UK have launched investigations. Initially, the BBC planned to continue airing MasterChef, but later decided to cancel the upcoming Christmas specials. Banijay emphasized that they take the matter seriously and have welfare processes in place, including multiple reporting mechanisms for crew and contributors.
Some former colleagues have shared more positive experiences with Wallace, with some workers describing him as making harmless “dad jokes” and noting they didn’t find his behavior concerning.
Wallace’s lawyers have strongly denied that he engages in sexually harassing behavior. He has not personally responded to the specific new allegations.
The situation continues to develop, with ongoing investigations and potential implications for Wallace’s career in television entertainment.
The BBC has stated that they take such issues seriously and have robust processes to address behavior that falls below their expected standards.
