Will BBC air series 21 of MasterChef UK after firing show presenters John Torode and Gregg Wallace?
BBC MasterChef's Australian-born co-presenter, John Torode, 59, was fired this week after he allegedly used the N-word twice while signing along to a Kanye West song.
The host was reportedly caught using the the term six or seven years ago while repeating the lyrics to Kanye West’s Gold Digger, after a couple of drinks, according to The Sun.
According to the report, Torode had allegedly used the word again while chatting to a friend on the MasterChef’s production team who did not find offence. The complaint was made by a person who overheard the conversation. A friend had reckoned Torode only used the slur as an example and had apologised afterwards.
Torode has said that he had no recollection of using the word seven years ago. Those close to the presenter have criticised the BBC's handling of his departure as Torode’s representatives were only made aware that his contract would not be renewed.
The BBC show had also been under fire since last year, as claims were made of co-presenter Gregg Wallace’s inappropriate behaviour. Wallace was fired last week after more than 45 allegations were made and upheld against him, according to the BBC. He had apologised for using inappropriate language between 2005 and 2018, but denied the more serious allegations, according to Deadline.
The two presenters have been hosting the show for two decades. The show, co-owned by Banijay, a French entertainment company, was worth $334 million according to the company’s annual report. Season 21 of the show features both Wallace and Torode and was filmed last year. The season has been held back by the BBC. A producer said that legal issues could arise if the company held back on airing the show, saying, “Depending on how the contracts they signed are specifically worded, it’s perfectly possible that a motivated contestant who committed time and therefore money to participate might get a decent lawyer to argue the BBC is in breach of contract.”
The BBC could also try to edit out both the presenters, but that would be a massive task due to the number of scenes they appear in. Kate Phillips, the current Head Content Officer, will have to make the final call on what to do with the season.
Food critics, other hosts and comedians are all being considered as replacements for both the presenters.
John Silver, a producer who worked for the show, said that it would be extremely difficult to gain viewers with a new show that would replace MasterChef due to its consistent viewership.
Earlier this week at the annual report, BBC Director General Tim Davie said that the show was “much bigger than individuals and that it can "absolutely survive and prosper.” Davie also said that his concern was for the amateur chefs who “gave their heart and soul” to the show.
Sources have said the final MasterChef season with Torode and Wallace will air “once the dust has settled”.
World