Banijay UK, the firm responsible for producing the popular BBC cooking show, announced the appointment of City-based law firm Lewis Silkin to lead an investigation into the accusations.
The production company behind MasterChef has taken decisive action amid allegations of misconduct involving long-time presenter Gregg Wallace.
Wallace, 60, who stepped down from his role on Thursday, faces allegations of making inappropriate sexual comments towards staff and celebrity guests over a span of 17 years across various programmes.
In a statement released on Saturday, Banijay UK emphasized its confidence in Lewis Silkin’s expertise. “Lewis Silkin is a major City law firm with a highly experienced specialist investigations team, which has overseen a broad range of high-profile workplace investigations,” the company stated.
“Banijay UK has been impressed by the firm’s rigorous, in-depth, and impartial analysis and reporting.” They encouraged anyone with relevant information to come forward, promising confidentiality.
“All information will be handled sensitively, and names of those providing evidence to the team will be kept confidential,” a spokesperson added.
Gregg Wallace, who has been associated with MasterChef since 2005, has also hosted its spin-offs, Celebrity MasterChef and MasterChef: The Professionals.
Banijay noted that Wallace has pledged full cooperation with the investigation following historical allegations of misconduct.
The BBC had previously received complaints about his behavior, leading to the ongoing probe. Meanwhile, public figures have begun to speak out about their experiences with Wallace, adding to the scrutiny surrounding him.
Notably, BBC Newsnight presenter Kirsty Wark recalled witnessing Wallace using “sexualized language in front of a number of people” during her appearance on Celebrity MasterChef in 2011.
Similarly, singer Sir Rod Stewart took to Instagram to criticize Wallace for allegedly humiliating his wife, Penny Lancaster, in 2021.
These allegations have compounded concerns about Wallace’s conduct, which he has yet to address directly.
Despite the mounting accusations, Wallace posted a cryptic Instagram message on Saturday, featuring a biscuit dunked in cream with the caption: “Enjoy your weekend.”
Earlier, in a video shared on Thursday, he thanked his supporters, saying, “I would like to thank all the people getting in touch, reaching out and showing their support. It’s good of you, thank you very much.”
His legal representatives have categorically denied the allegations, with the BBC reporting that his lawyers stated, “It is entirely false that he engages in behavior of a sexually harassing nature.”
Adding to the fallout, the charity Ambitious About Autism announced on Friday that it had dropped Wallace as an ambassador, citing the recent allegations.
Wallace has a personal connection to autism, as his youngest son, Sid, aged five, is non-verbal and autistic. The decision underscores the broader repercussions of the controversy, which have extended beyond his professional career.
As the investigation unfolds, Wallace’s future in the entertainment industry remains uncertain. Banijay UK’s decision to engage a reputable law firm reflects its commitment to addressing the allegations thoroughly and maintaining integrity within its productions.
The case also highlights growing accountability in media circles as companies prioritize creating safe and respectful environments for all stakeholders.
