BBC Sacks MasterChef John Torode Over Racial Slur Allegations

John Torode, the MasterChef presenter, was dismissed by the BBC after an investigation upheld allegations that he used the N-word on two occasions, including while singing along to Kanye West's song 'Gold Digger' at an after-work gathering several years ago. Torode has denied the accusations, stating he only knows the radio edit of the song which censors the slur, and claims to have no recollection of using the word. The complaint arose from a conversation overheard by a production team member, who reportedly did not take offense and said Torode apologized immediately. The production company Banijay offered Torode a chance to return if he took a year off, but he refused. The investigation, conducted by law firm Lewis Silkin, also substantiated numerous allegations against co-host Gregg Wallace, while Torode expressed devastation and a desire to clear his name. Public figures such as Richard Osman described the slur as the "worst racial slur there is," affirming the findings of the inquiry.