The UK television world has found itself at the heart of a new controversy, as much-loved MasterChef presenter John Torode confirmed he was the subject of an allegation involving the use of racist language. The news emerged following the publication of a high-profile investigation into the behaviour of MasterChef presenters. The inquiry initially focused on co-host Gregg Wallace but ultimately substantiated allegations against others, including Torode.
The Allegation and John Torode’s Response
The complaint against John Torode related to an incident said to have occurred in either 2018 or 2019, during a social situation. The person who lodged the complaint reportedly did not believe the language was intended maliciously. Furthermore, Torode is said to have apologised immediately at the time. Despite the passage of several years, the incident resurfaced amid scrutiny of workplace behaviour in UK television, prompted by wider allegations involving the MasterChef team.
In a transparent move, Torode spoke openly via social media, confirming he was the unnamed presenter referenced in the report. He stated, “I have absolutely no recollection of any of this, and I do not believe that it happened. However, I want to be clear that I’ve always had the view that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. I’m shocked and saddened by the allegation as I would never wish to cause anyone any offence.” Torode maintained that he holds himself to high standards and expressed distress that anyone could feel hurt by something he may have said.
How the Allegation Came to Light
The wider review, commissioned by MasterChef’s production company, Banijay, and conducted by law firm Lewis Silkin, drew significant attention in the press. It investigated 83 allegations against Gregg Wallace, substantiating 45 of them. Two other standalone complaints were upheld, one being the allegation involving John Torode. The review emerged during a challenging period for the BBC and its partners, with workplace culture and accountability in the spotlight.
Reports highlight that, after publication of the executive summary, speculation mounted as to the identities of the other individuals involved. Torode chose to publicly address the matter, presumably to dispel speculation and ensure transparency for colleagues and the viewing public.
Industry and Public Reaction
The television industry, viewers, and advocacy groups have responded with a mixture of shock, disappointment, and calls for greater accountability. Public interest in the case has been immense, with searches for “John Torode racist language allegation” trending across the UK in recent days. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy responded, “This case highlights a wider issue and much more must be done to ensure that everyone working in the creative industries is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.” Human rights advocates, including Baroness Helena Kennedy, have also weighed in, emphasising repeated missed opportunities in responding adequately to such complaints.
Torode has worked in UK broadcasting for decades and is well-regarded among his peers. News of the allegation has led viewers and industry analysts to reflect on the standards of behaviour expected within the television industry, particularly in family-friendly programming. While Torode was not accused of acting with intent to offend, the episode underscores how even perceived lapses in judgment or cultural sensitivity can reverberate within public life.
The MasterChef Context
The BBC’s iconic cooking show MasterChef has seen its reputation tested in 2025. The report that brought the Torode allegation to light was originally focused on investigating Gregg Wallace’s workplace conduct, following reports of inappropriate remarks and behaviour on set. Wallace, who has presented MasterChef alongside Torode for many years, apologised for causing distress and was removed from the show prior to the report’s release.
The investigation, unprecedented in its breadth, reflects a shifting landscape in British media, where both employees and the public expect clear standards and accountability. MasterChef remains a cornerstone of British television, and these events have initiated a vital debate about ensuring psychological safety, respect, and diversity both on screen and behind the scenes.
Broader Implications for UK Media
Recent months have seen multiple high-profile UK broadcasters confront long-standing complaints about their internal cultures. A BBC report earlier in the year identified “a small number” of stars and managers who “behave unacceptably at work,” with leadership often failing to take real action.
These revelations and the subsequent reviews, including the one that named Torode, point to growing pressure on the UK’s creative industries to improve diversity, equity, and inclusion. In particular, industry representatives urge that leadership foster environments where people can feel safe to report inappropriate behaviour without fear of retaliation or inaction.
A New Standard for Transparency
John Torode’s choice to speak candidly about the allegation, without prompting or direct exposure, has been met with mixed responses. Some organisations and viewers have praised his openness, suggesting it sets a constructive example for others in public life. Others argue that recollection or intent can never offset the impact of language that marginalises or offends, and call for renewed vigilance across all sectors.
What is clear is that the UK’s cultural conversation about race, inclusion, and respectful conduct is entering a new phase. The high-profile nature of the Torode episode ensures such conversations are now unavoidable at every level of British media.
