The BBC has responded to whether or not new MasterChef episodes featuring Gregg Wallace are set to air.
This comes after the co-host was announced to be leaving the show after 19 years following allegations that he made inappropriate sexual comments in previous series.
13 people have reportedly made allegations against the presenter, including BBC’s Kirsty Wark.
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The BBC released the following statement to PA after the production company behind MasterChef, Banijay UK, announced he would be leaving the show: “We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and we have robust processes in place to deal with them.
"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.”
Many will be questioning whether, in light of the severity of the allegations, MasterChef will continue to air as normal.
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The next episode of the current season is scheduled to air at 8pm tonight (November 28).
A spokesperson for the BBC confirmed that this was still the case despite the allegations, saying: “All recorded episodes will TX (broadcast) as planned.”
The news is sure to be a shock to viewers, who will be tuning into the show knowing that the episodes airing will be Wallace’s last after 19 years.
Bainjay UK released the following statement in which they announced the departure of Wallace, who joined the show in 2005: “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.
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"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.
“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.”
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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, Entertainment, Celebrity, TV and Film
Michael Slavin