MasterChef Axes John Torode Over Substantiated Racist Language Claim

John Torode, longtime host of MasterChef since its 2005 relaunch, has been removed from the show following an independent investigation that substantiated an allegation of his use of a highly offensive racist term in 2018. Despite the finding, Torode denies the incident, stating he has no recollection of the alleged remark and was never formally informed by the BBC or production company Banijay UK about his contract not being renewed. The BBC and Banijay emphasized their zero-tolerance stance on racist language and confirmed that action was necessary after the investigation, which also involved Torode's former co-host Gregg Wallace. Torode expressed disappointment over the lack of communication regarding his exit and announced that the recently filmed Celebrity MasterChef and Christmas specials would be his last. The controversy has drawn strong condemnation from BBC Director-General Tim Davie, who expects decisive measures to address the racism allegations. Torode concluded by reflecting on his two decades with MasterChef and expressing hope that his successor will cherish the role as he did.