The launch of MasterChef 2025 has stirred up a wave of controversy as the BBC aired the new season despite ongoing backlash against former hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode. While the cooking competition remains a fan-favorite, many viewers are conflicted about continuing to support the show in light of serious misconduct allegations.
MasterChef Series 21 Debuts Amid Scandal
The 21st season of MasterChef debuted on Wednesday, August 6, with its first three episodes dropping on BBC iPlayer and the premiere airing on BBC One at 8 p.m. However, this release comes on the heels of a storm of controversy involving both Gregg Wallace and John Torode, who have since been removed from the series.
The BBC has confirmed that this season was filmed in 2024, before the allegations surfaced, but its airing in 2025 has drawn widespread criticism. According to viewers, the show features noticeably fewer jokes and less banter between the hosts and contestants—possibly an attempt to soften the tone in light of the ongoing public scrutiny.
In one early scene, Torode says, “This is the sort of stuff that dreams are made of,” while Wallace praises a contestant’s dish, saying, “That is a cracker of a job.”
Fans Respond: “Conflicted” But Loyal to Contestants
Reactions to the new MasterChef series have been mixed, with fans taking to social media to express their discomfort.
“I’m split over watching MasterChef,” one fan shared. “I don’t want to be watching Wallace, but I do love seeing people doing things they are so passionate about.”
Another viewer added, “I’m glad they’re showing #MasterChef – after all the hard work they’ve put in, it’s only fair on the contestants that it’s aired.”
Despite that, others expressed disappointment in the BBC’s decision, with one post reading, “Just disgraceful that they are broadcasting this.” Another commenter criticized the BBC for “filling the summer schedule” at the expense of prioritizing the treatment of women.
Government Response and Contestant Exit
When asked about the series airing, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy clarified on BBC Breakfast, “It’s absolutely not for me… to tell broadcasters what they can and can’t broadcast,” but confirmed, “I certainly won’t be watching this series.”
Further complicating the issue, one of the contestants, Sarah Shafi, chose to be edited out of the final broadcast. In an interview with The Guardian, Shafi shared that she objected to the series airing after a “heated conversation” with a producer who urged her to consider the show’s life-changing potential.
For full context and original reporting, refer to The Independent’s detailed report.
What Were the Allegations?
In July 2025, the BBC and Banijay UK published findings from an external legal review conducted by Lewis Silkin LLP, which upheld 45 of 83 allegations made against Gregg Wallace. These included instances of inappropriate sexual language and one report of unwelcome physical contact.
Wallace issued a statement saying he was “deeply sorry for any distress caused”, insisting he “never set out to harm or humiliate.”
Meanwhile, John Torode faced one allegation related to the use of racist language, which was also upheld. Torode responded, saying he had “no recollection of the incident” and was “shocked and saddened.”
Who Hosts the Rest of MasterChef 2025?
Although Gregg Wallace appears in the early episodes, the BBC has confirmed that he will not appear after the semi-finals. He will be replaced by Irish chef Anna Haugh, who has previously judged on MasterChef: The Professionals and Celebrity MasterChef.
Whether the Celebrity MasterChef 2025 or the annual Christmas specials will proceed remains undecided.
A Series Overshadowed by Its Hosts
With six amateur chefs featured in the first heat, this season was intended to be a celebration of emerging culinary talent. However, the legacy of MasterChef 2025 may be forever stained by the actions of its presenters.
The BBC stated:
“In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters… We want the contestants to be properly recognized and give the audience the choice to watch the series.”
Final Thoughts
Despite the controversy, many loyal fans remain eager to support the contestants who have dedicated their time, energy, and creativity to the competition. Whether viewers choose to tune in or boycott the series is now a matter of personal ethics.
One thing is clear: MasterChef 2025 is unlike any other season before it—for all the wrong reasons.
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