BBC faces new questions over Gregg Wallace allegations after 2017 warning

Allegations against MasterChef's Gregg Wallace include sexualised jokes and inappropriate behaviour.

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The BBC is facing renewed criticism over its handling of allegations against celebrity chef and MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace, after new details emerged showing that the broadcaster was warned about his behaviour as far back as 2017.

According to the Sunday Times, BBC presenter Aasmah Mir complained about inappropriate comments made by Wallace during the filming of Celebrity MasterChef.

In an internal email, BBC executive Kate Phillips, now in charge of unscripted programmes, acknowledged that Wallace's behaviour on set was “unacceptable” and needed to stop. She assured Mir that she would be kept informed should further allegations surface.

Mir later sent a follow-up email, copied to Phillips, saying, "This must not happen again to another woman."

However, despite these early warnings, a letter containing multiple allegations of inappropriate behaviour was sent to the BBC in 2022, but no investigation followed at the time.

Wallace’s lawyers have strongly denied the allegations, stating that he does not engage in sexually harassing behaviour. The BBC, meanwhile, said it has “robust processes” in place to address any issues raised.

The latest wave of allegations, which span a period of 17 years, includes claims from former Celebrity MasterChef contestant Kirsty Wark, who said Wallace made sexualised jokes during filming in 2011. Several others have since come forward with similar complaints.

In response to the mounting allegations, production company Banijay UK, which produces MasterChef, announced on Thursday that Wallace would step aside from presenting the show while an investigation is conducted.

The company has appointed the law firm Lewis Silkin, known for handling high-profile workplace investigations, to lead the inquiry.

In an Instagram post, Wallace expressed his commitment to co-operating fully with the investigation, while his lawyers continue to deny the accusations.