MasterChef Viewers Criticize ‘Tone-Deaf’ BBC Over ‘Bizarre Decision’ to Proceed with New Season Following Dismissal of Hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace

BBC Faces Backlash for Airing MasterChef Amid Host Controversy
(Image: John Torode and Gregg Wallace on a recent MasterChef episode, looking tense during a judging segment.)

The BBC has sparked outrage by airing the 21st series of MasterChef after firing longtime hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace over misconduct allegations. Despite last-minute edits to minimize their screen time, viewers criticized the "tone-deaf" decision to broadcast the show, with many calling for the license fee to be scrapped.

The series premiered on BBC iPlayer and aired Wednesday night, but fans expressed confusion over the hosts’ prominent roles despite their recent dismissal. Social media erupted with criticism, with one viewer tweeting, “It’s bizarre they’re airing #MasterChef with Gregg and John after sacking them. What were they thinking?” Others called the move “unbelievable” and questioned why the duo wasn’t fully edited out.

Lack of Chemistry Adds to Awkwardness
(Image: Split-screen comparison of Torode and Wallace sitting distantly at the judges’ table.)

Body language expert Judi James noted the pair’s strained dynamic, stating they lacked “on-screen chemistry” and were filmed separately to avoid interaction. “Their communication seems forced, with no synchronicity—like two strangers sharing a table,” she told The Mirror.

Behind the Firings
Wallace was dismissed after a BBC investigation upheld 45 complaints, including allegations of inappropriate sexual remarks and one incident of physical contact. Torode, meanwhile, faced claims of using a racial slur, which he denies. Both had hosted the show for nearly two decades.

Contestant Sarah Shafi refused to participate in the new series, alleging Wallace “ogled” her and made uncomfortable comments. The BBC’s internal report confirmed Wallace’s misconduct, citing a “toxic workplace culture.” Wallace later attributed his behavior to his recent autism diagnosis, stating the BBC failed to support his neurodiversity. “I know I’m odd, but my actions were misunderstood,” he told The Sun.

(Image: Gregg Wallace in a past episode, smiling alongside a contestant.)

Viewers Side with Contestants
Fans lamented the overshadowed season, tweeting, “The contestants deserve better.” Others mocked the BBC’s editing efforts, with one post quipping, “Who’s getting kicked off? The presenters!”

(Image: Montage of angry Twitter reactions criticizing the BBC’s decision.)

Fallout Continues
The controversy has reignited debates about accountability at the BBC. With Wallace and Torode’s exits, the future of MasterChef remains uncertain. For now, the broadcaster’s choice to air the pre-recorded series has left audiences questioning its judgment—and tuning in with mixed feelings.

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