John Torode breaks silence as host hit with racism allegation in wake of Gregg axing

MasterChef star John Torode has broken his silence after a report by the BBC was published. It comes as it was speculated that the 59-year-old was one of two other individuals, besides Gregg Wallace, who had an allegation upheld against them.

In an Instagram post on Monday, the TV presenter shared that he had been accused of making a racist remark in 2018 or 2019. Torode confirmed the rumours, as he said it was "for the sake of transparency". He also noted that he apologised immediately after the event and claims that the person he was speaking with did not believe he made the remark in a "malicious way". However, Torode also claimed that he had "no recollection" of any of it, adding: "I do not believe that it happened."

His statement, in full, read: "Following publication of the Executive Summary of the investigation into Gregg Wallace while working on MasterChef, I am aware of speculation that I am one of the two other individuals against whom an allegation has been upheld.

"For the sake of transparency, I confirm that I am the individual who is alleged to have used racial language on one occasion. The allegation is that I did so sometime in 2018 or 2019, in a social situation, and that the person I was speaking with did not believe that it was intended in a malicious way and that I apologised immediately afterwards.

"I have absolutely no recollection of any of this, and I do not believe that it happened. However, I want to be clear that I've always had the view that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. I'm shocked and saddened by the allegation as I would never wish to cause anyone any offence."

It comes as MasterChef's production company Banijay ordered an inquest after more than 80 complaints were made regarding Wallace's behaviour. It found that 45 of the allegations were upheld, resulting in his sacking from the BBC show.

The 60-year-old broke his silence after the report was published and has admitted he "never set out to harm or humiliate". He added that he is "deeply sorry for any distress".

Wallace, who was diagnosed with autism during the investigation, told PA: "For eight months, my family and I have lived under a cloud. Trial by media, fuelled by rumour and clickbait. None of the serious allegations against me were upheld.

"I challenged the remaining issue of unwanted touching, but have had to accept a difference in perception, and I am deeply sorry for any distress caused. It was never intended."

Earlier today, the BBC confirmed Wallace would not return to any of its programmes and admitted opportunities had been missed to deal with his behaviour. The broadcasters also said the number of sustained allegations made his return to MasterChef "untenable".