**John Torode Responds to Racial Language Allegation Amid MasterChef Review**
MasterChef presenter John Torode has addressed an allegation that he used “racial language,” which was upheld in a report stemming from an investigation into the behavior of his former co-host, Gregg Wallace. The review, conducted by the law firm Lewis Silkin, substantiated 45 out of 83 allegations against Wallace, including two separate claims against other individuals, one of which involved the use of racist language.
This revelation coincides with the release of the BBC’s annual report, which will disclose the salaries of its top talent and address various controversies, including its coverage of Glastonbury and a contentious documentary on Gaza.
In a statement shared on his Instagram, Torode provided clarity on the allegations against him, stating that he has “no recollection of the incident” and does not believe it occurred. He confirmed that he is the individual alleged to have used racial language in a social setting around 2018 or 2019, emphasizing that the person he spoke to did not perceive it as malicious and that he apologized immediately afterward. Torode expressed his shock and sadness over the allegation, reiterating his stance that any form of racial language is completely unacceptable.
Gregg Wallace, 60, also expressed regret for any distress caused, stating that he never intended to “harm or humiliate” anyone. While most of the substantiated claims against him involved inappropriate sexual language and humor, others included allegations of unwanted physical contact and being in a state of undress. The report concluded that the number of sustained allegations made Wallace’s return to MasterChef “untenable.”
In his statement, Wallace acknowledged that some of his humor and language may have been inappropriate, noting that after nearly 20 years on the show, he has begun to understand certain patterns in his behavior, influenced by a late autism diagnosis.
As the situation unfolds, both presenters are facing scrutiny over their past actions, highlighting the ongoing conversation about acceptable behavior in the workplace.
**FAQ**
**What was the outcome of the investigation into Gregg Wallace?**
The investigation upheld 45 out of 83 allegations against Gregg Wallace, including claims of inappropriate language and behavior, making his return to MasterChef “untenable.