Viewers are reacting to Gregg Wallace on tonight’s Masterchef following the announcement he would be leaving the show.
News of his departure earlier today (28 November) comes after 19 years presenting alongside John Torode.
Wallace was confirmed to be leaving by production studio Banijay UK, who stated that alongside the BBC it was holding an external review into allegations against him.
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LADbible exclusively confirmed today that the BBC had stated all remaining MasterChef episodes, starting tonight, were set to release as normal.
Wallace himself has now spoken out following the news, as he thanked people who had been 'showing him support' in an Instagram video.
He said: "I would like to thank all the people getting in touch, reaching out and showing their support.
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"That's good of you. Thank you very much."
Now, fans have been reacting to tonight's episode of the BBC cooking programme which featured Wallace, with one writing: "Gregg Wallace saying on Masterchef "one of you will be leaving", never realising it would be him."
"Gregg Wallace @BBCOne just said (to the final four Masterchef contestants trying to make the semi-final) "today one of you will be leaving the competition". Yes. You, Gregg. Bye," wrote another.
The full statement from the BBC on Wallace's departure reads: “We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and we have robust processes in place to deal with them.
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"We are always clear that any behaviour which falls below the standards expected by the BBC will not be tolerated.
"Where an individual is contracted directly by an external production company we share any complaints or concerns with that company and we will always support them when addressing them.”
Banijay UK’s statement read: “This week the BBC received complaints from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows.
"Whilst these complainants have not raised the allegations directly with our show producers or parent company Banijay UK, we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate.
"While this review is underway, Gregg Wallace will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef and is committed to fully cooperating throughout the process.
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“Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always a priority and our expectations regarding behaviour are made clear to both cast and crew on all productions, with multiple ways of raising concerns, including anonymously, clearly promoted on set.
“Whilst these are historical allegations, incidences brought to our attention where these expectations are not met, are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately.”
The statement added: “If anyone would like to talk to us or raise any issues or concerns, then they can contact [email protected] in confidence."
LADbible Group has contacted representatives for Gregg Wallace for comment.
Topics: BBC, TV, TV and Film, Gregg Wallace
Michael Slavin