Gregg Wallace Apologizes After 45 Allegations Upheld

Former *MasterChef* presenter Gregg Wallace has publicly apologized following the confirmation of 45 out of 83 allegations of misconduct against him. In a statement, Wallace expressed his regret for any distress caused, emphasizing that he “never set out to harm or humiliate.” The findings come after a report released yesterday by the law firm Lewis Silkin, which investigated the claims made during his time on the show.

The investigation was initiated by the production company, Banijay UK, in November 2024, which led to Wallace stepping back from his role on *MasterChef* while the allegations were scrutinized. The report substantiated that the majority of complaints, approximately 94 percent, related to incidents that occurred between 2005 and 2018. Only one allegation was confirmed as occurring after 2018.

Wallace’s statement, delivered to the *PA* news agency, highlighted that none of the serious allegations were upheld. He acknowledged a single issue regarding unwanted touching, attributing any misunderstanding to a “difference in perception.” He stated, “For eight months, my family and I have lived under a cloud. Trial by media, fuelled by rumour and clickbait.”

The report detailed that the substantiated allegations primarily involved inappropriate sexual language and humor, alongside other inappropriate conduct, including one incident of unwelcome physical contact. It is noteworthy that during the seven-month investigation, Wallace was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, which the report suggested should be considered when evaluating his behavior.

In his apology, Wallace mentioned, “I’m relieved that the Banijay report fully recognises that my behaviour changed profoundly in 2018. Some of my humour and language missed the mark. I never set out to harm or humiliate.” He also expressed gratitude toward Banijay for their support, while criticizing the BBC for leaving him vulnerable to media scrutiny.

Banijay UK has stated that Wallace’s return to *MasterChef* is now “untenable” following the findings of the report. The BBC has informed Wallace that it has “no plans to work with him in future.” Additionally, the future of a *MasterChef* series filmed last year remains uncertain, with the BBC indicating that a final decision on its broadcast has not yet been made.

In the wake of these developments, Wallace reflected on the impact of the media coverage, describing it as brutal and expressing concern for others in similar situations. He remarked, “For a working-class man with a direct manner, modern broadcasting has become a dangerous place. I was the headline this time. But I won’t be the last.”

Last year, a BBC News investigation revealed numerous allegations of inappropriate comments and behavior against Wallace from 13 individuals who worked with him over a span of 17 years. At that time, Wallace’s legal representatives vehemently denied the claims, stating it was “entirely false” that he engaged in any sexually harassing conduct.

As the situation continues to unfold, the industry watches closely, reflecting on the broader implications for media professionals and their accountability.