Gregg Wallace quits Masterchef amid BBC misconduct probe

ok.co.uk:

Celebrity chef Gregg Wallace is taking a break from his role on MasterChef, following the emergence of historic allegations against him.

A statement released by Banijay UK to PA news agency outlines that although complaints have been made to the BBC rather than directly to the production company, an external review will be conducted: "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." It continues: "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." The statement emphasises Banijay UK's commitment to staff welfare and their readiness to address inappropriate behaviour, adding: "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." It concludes by encouraging individuals with issues or concerns to reach out confidentially to speakup@banijayuk.com.

A BBC spokesperson has commented: “We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and we have robust processes in place to deal with them.