Gregg Wallace sacked from MasterChef after 50 new misconduct allegations
Gregg Wallace has been removed from MasterChef after the inquiry into his alleged misconduct, as 50 fresh allegations against the presenter emerge.
The high-profile television presenter stepped down from the BBC show late last year, following the corporation’s revelation of 13 allegations concerning sexually inappropriate behaviour. While the presenter admits his “humour and language, at times, was inappropriate”, he denies the “most serious and sensational allegations” made against him.
Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef, instructed a law firm to investigate the allegations last year, with findings expected to be publicised shortly. In July, Wallace took to social media to comment on the anticipated report, stating “the most damning claims, including allegations from public figures, were found to be baseless after a full and forensic six-month investigation”.
The new allegations were presented to the BBC, which noted “many of the women who spoke to us are young female freelancers”. Allegations include complaints of sexual harassment and groping.
Sadly, several of those who bravely shared their experiences admitted they felt afraid to voice concerns at the time, fearing career-ending repercussions.
Alarmingly, many of the alleged incidents occurred on production sets or during work-related travel. One woman, who was involved with MasterChef’s production between 2011 and 2013, described an incident in which Wallace pulled down his trousers and stated he was not wearing underwear. Upon reporting the incident to the senior production team, she was reportedly told “you’re over 16, you’re not being ‘Jimmy Saviled’”.
It appears Wallace’s employers were aware of the complaints against him yet failed to take appropriate steps to safeguard their employees.
Despite knowing his conduct presented a risk to employees, they continued to work with him for a number of years. This negligent conduct may open the door for survivors to pursue compensation through the civil courts.
Unfortunately, similar incidents of inappropriate behaviour on production sets have become increasingly prevalent in recent years.
While it is encouraging survivors are increasingly empowered to come forward, these allegations raise serious and urgent concerns about the workplace culture and employee safety within the media and entertainment industries.
Protecting employees from harm must remain a top priority. It is hoped the establishment of the Creative Industries Independent Standards Authority (CIISA) will facilitate meaningful change and you can read about the CIISA in our previous blog post.
Baroness Helena Kennedy, chair of CIISA, warned Wallace: “There may be an opportunity for you to make a comeback at some point, but don’t say that all of these women have made this stuff up and don’t say that it’s all invented.”
She has also criticised Wallace’s former employers for failing to promptly address concerns as they arose, highlighting their responsibility to “nip issues in the bud”.
Moving forward, it will be crucial for any production company involved to conduct a thorough internal investigation and establish open reporting mechanisms to prevent further incidents of misconduct. Ensuring accountability will be vital for fostering a safer workplace environment, and deterring prolific behaviour.
Abuse of any form should not be tolerated. If you have been the victim of sexual harassment or assault at work, we encourage you to reach out to Bolt Burdon Kemp for a free and confidential conversation with one of our experts.
