BBC Re-edits MasterChef to Limit Wallace, Torode Appearances Amid Misconduct Allegations

The BBC's MasterChef is returning to screens after a last-minute effort to re-edit the latest series and reduce the screen time of hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode, both of whom were recently sacked amid serious misconduct allegations. Wallace faced over 45 upheld complaints following a BBC investigation, while Torode was dismissed over claims he used a racial slur, which he denies remembering. Despite criticism from the broadcast union Bectu, which argued that inappropriate behavior should not be rewarded with prime-time coverage, the BBC decided to air the pre-recorded series after consulting contestants. One contestant, Sarah Shafi, who raised concerns about Wallace's conduct, has been edited out of the show, though the production company reported no evidence supporting her claims in the footage. The BBC has also minimized the presenters' appearances in promotional materials and episode descriptions to lessen their presence. The new series features amateur chefs competing for a quarter-final spot and is available on BBC One and iPlayer.