MasterChef Faces Turmoil as Tom Kerridge Withdraws from Hosting Deal

MasterChef is experiencing significant upheaval as chef Tom Kerridge has withdrawn from a planned hosting agreement with the BBC. This development comes as the network attempts to find replacements for long-standing hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode, who were dismissed following a formal investigation into their conduct.

Reports indicate that Kerridge, alongside restaurant critic Grace Dent, was expected to lead the next series of the popular cooking competition. Despite initial confidence among BBC staff that the partnership was secure, complications arose regarding Kerridge’s contract negotiations and compensation.

A source familiar with the negotiations stated, “Tom and Grace are seen as a really safe pair of hands, and the BBC thought they were the perfect fit for MasterChef.” The proposed agreement was supposed to span one year, but disagreements over financial terms have stalled the process. With filming for the upcoming series set to commence imminently, the situation poses a challenge for the BBC, which is now in search of alternative candidates should Kerridge not reach an agreement.

The BBC has been actively seeking replacements for Wallace and Torode, both 60, after their departures from the show in early 2023. Wallace faced serious allegations, with a total of 45 out of 38 complaints substantiated against him, while Torode was dismissed after reportedly using a racial slur. Both have denied any wrongdoing.

Prior to this turmoil, Grace Dent was identified as a suitable candidate for the hosting role, having previously appeared on various MasterChef formats, including Celebrity MasterChef and MasterChef: The Professionals. Her involvement in the series was first reported in July 2023.

Chef Tom Kerridge has an impressive culinary background, having transitioned from a television actor to a renowned chef. He opened his first pub, The Hand & Flowers, in 2005, which earned a Michelin star within a year, making it the first pub in the UK to receive two Michelin stars by 2012. Recently, he faced challenges with his establishments, including the closure of The Butcher’s Tap & Grill in Chelsea due to rising costs and declining demand.

As the BBC grapples with these staffing issues, they are under pressure to finalize the hosting lineup. If Kerridge cannot secure the desired terms, the network may need to consider other options, with Matt Tebbutt and Andi Oliver reportedly among the favorites for the role.

The future of MasterChef hangs in the balance, and the BBC’s next steps will be closely watched as they aim to maintain the show’s legacy in light of these recent developments.