John Torode Responds to MasterChef Contract Non-Renewal Amid Racism Allegations

TV presenter John Torode has publicly addressed his contract non-renewal from MasterChef, stating he first learned of the situation through media reports. In a statement posted on his Instagram account on July 15, 2023, the 59-year-old chef expressed surprise at the allegations of having used a “racist” term, claiming that neither the BBC nor the production company Banijay UK had communicated with him directly regarding the matter.

The allegations emerged following a review conducted by the law firm Lewis Silkin into the conduct of his co-presenter, Gregg Wallace, during filming over the past 19 years. The BBC confirmed that Torode’s contract would not be renewed as a result of these findings, which included accusations of using racist language.

In his statement, Torode reiterated his lack of memory regarding the incident and expressed disappointment at not being consulted about his departure from a show he has been part of since its relaunch in 2005. “I have no recollection of what I’m accused of,” he stated, adding that the inquiry could not specify when the alleged comment was made. He noted, “I’d hoped that I’d have some say in my exit from a show I’ve worked on for so long, but events in the last few days seem to have prevented that.”

Torode indicated that his appearances on Celebrity MasterChef and two recently filmed Christmas specials would mark his final contributions to the franchise, although it remains unclear whether the BBC will air these episodes. “Personally, I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else,” he remarked.

In an interview with BBC News, Tim Davie, the BBC’s director-general, acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and confirmed he was informed of the decision not to renew Torode’s contract. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the values expected within the organization, stating, “It’s a reset where we make sure that people are living up to the values we expect across the board.”

Davie refrained from disclosing the exact term used by Torode but described it as a “serious racist term,” asserting that such language is unacceptable in any context. A statement from Banijay UK confirmed that the investigation into Wallace also substantiated the allegation against Torode, which reportedly took place in 2018.

The report by Lewis Silkin determined that 45 out of 83 allegations against Wallace were substantiated, alongside two additional allegations against other individuals, including one for using racist language. Torode has previously stated that he was “shocked and saddened” by the allegations against him and continues to deny any wrongdoing.

A spokesperson for the BBC reiterated the seriousness of the upheld allegation, noting that Torode has identified himself in connection with the complaint. “John Torode denies the allegation and states he has no recollection of the alleged incident,” the spokesperson said, confirming the broadcaster’s commitment to maintaining a workplace free from racist language.

While the future of MasterChef remains uncertain, Davie assured audiences that the program is expected to continue beyond 2028, when its current agreement concludes. “I absolutely think it does have a future. A great programme that’s loved by audiences is much bigger than individuals,” he stated.

As the situation unfolds, the BBC has not yet made a final decision on airing the recently filmed series of MasterChef featuring both Wallace and Torode. A spokesperson acknowledged the disappointment felt by fans and participants alike, indicating that further consultation with Banijay UK will occur at the appropriate time.

Torode, who was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in 2022 for his contributions to food and charity, has been a familiar figure on television since 1996, when he first appeared as the resident chef on ITV’s This Morning. He joined MasterChef alongside Wallace when the show was rebranded as MasterChef Goes Large.