U.K. ‘MasterChef’ Host Gregg Wallace to Step Down While Allegations of Historical Misconduct Investigated

variety.com:

Leo Barraclough International Features Editor Television host Gregg Wallace is to step down as the presenter of the U.K. version of “MasterChef,” which airs on public broadcaster BBC, while allegations of historical misconduct are investigated.

Wallace, who has been a co-host and judge on the cooking show since 2005, is “committed to fully co-operating throughout the process,” the show’s production company Banijay UK said.

A BBC spokesman said: “We take any issues that are raised with us seriously and we have robust processes in place to deal with them.” The BBC received complaints this week “from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct” while working with Wallace on one of Banijay UK’s shows, the company said Thursday.

The company added that “we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate.” While this review is underway, Wallace will step away from his role on “MasterChef,” and is “committed to fully co-operating throughout the process,” Banijay UK added.