The BBC’s Celebrity MasterChef will see a significant shake-up as Grace Dent, the esteemed restaurant critic and The Guardian columnist, steps in to replace Gregg Wallace as co-presenter. Wallace’s departure follows allegations of inappropriate behaviour spanning nearly two decades, prompting an external review and leading to his exit from the popular cooking competition.
A new chapter for masterchef
Grace Dent, known for her sharp wit and discerning palate, will join veteran presenter John Torode for the 20th season of Celebrity MasterChef, which is set to air next year. Dent, 51, has been a frequent guest on the show and competed in last year’s MasterChef: Battle of the Critics. Her involvement with the programme has long established her as a familiar and respected face in the MasterChef family.
Reflecting on her new role, Dent said:
“I’ve been watching MasterChef since I was a girl sitting with my dad on the sofa. My whole family watches it. It’s all about uncovering and championing talent—and to have ended up in this position is more than a dream to me.”
She added, with characteristic humour:
“I’m so excited that I can’t eat, which is severely detrimental to a restaurant critic. I feel very lucky to be stepping in for the next Celebrity MasterChef. I can’t wait to meet the fresh celebrity faces for 2025.”
Warm welcome from the team
John Torode expressed his enthusiasm about Dent joining him on the show:
“I have loved working with Grace on MasterChef over the years. She has been an excellent guest, an inspiring critic, and has set some incredible challenges. Expertise is what MasterChef is all about, and Grace embodies that through and through.”
David Ambler, executive editor of MasterChef, praised Dent’s contribution, citing her “expertise, wit, and finely-honed palate”. Kalpna Patel-Knight, head of entertainment at the BBC, echoed this sentiment, calling Dent the “perfect choice” for the role due to her energetic and engaging presence.
Wallace’s departure amid allegations
Gregg Wallace’s exit from Celebrity MasterChef comes in the wake of serious allegations of inappropriate behaviour spanning 17 years. More than a dozen individuals have come forward with accusations, triggering an external review into his conduct.
The controversy surrounding Wallace has cast a shadow over recent MasterChef programming. While the most recent series of MasterChef: The Professionals continued to air, two festive specials, Celebrity MasterChef Christmas Cook Off and MasterChef Strictly Festive Extravaganza, were pulled from the BBC’s Christmas schedule.
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Wallace’s defence and controversial comments
Wallace’s legal team has strongly denied the allegations, stating:
“It is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”
However, the situation escalated further when Wallace recorded a video dismissing his accusers as “middle-class women of a certain age”. The remarks were widely condemned, with Downing Street labelling them “completely inappropriate and misogynistic.”
Amid the uproar, Wallace later issued an apology, stating he “wasn’t in a good space” when he made the comments.
A fresh era for celebrity masterchef
Dent’s appointment marks a fresh start for Celebrity MasterChef, as the programme moves forward from the controversy. Known for her engaging style, deep culinary knowledge, and passion for uncovering talent, Dent is poised to bring new energy to the series.
Her previous appearances as a guest judge have showcased her ability to critique with a balance of warmth and expertise, making her a natural fit for the role. Fans of the show can look forward to a dynamic partnership between Dent and Torode as they guide a new batch of celebrity contestants through the challenges of the kitchen.
Looking ahead
The upcoming season promises not only delicious dishes but also a renewed focus on the essence of MasterChef: discovering and celebrating culinary talent. Grace Dent’s presence is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved competition, ensuring its continued place as a highlight of British television.
As for Gregg Wallace, his future in broadcasting remains uncertain as the allegations against him are investigated. For now, Celebrity MasterChef is set to embark on an exciting new chapter, with Grace Dent at the helm.
