For years, John Torode was a familiar face in homes across the UK, guiding budding chefs and celebrities alike through the highs and lows of the MasterChef kitchen.
But that chapter has now come to an abrupt and controversial end, and it’s stirring up far more than just cooking drama.
John Torode Considers Legal Action Over Sacking
Word is swirling that John is now weighing up his legal options after being axed from MasterChef.
Sources close to him claim he’s adamant the allegation that led to his dismissal has no factual basis.
According to insiders speaking with The Mirror, John insists the offensive remark he’s accused of wasn’t even made in a work setting and is nothing more than hearsay.
“He’s determined to clear his name,” the source said.
However, there’s a legal complication—John’s contract wasn’t directly with the BBC, but with the production company Banijay.
That technicality might limit his ability to pursue a lawsuit against the broadcaster.
BBC Caught in a Programming Dilemma
Even with both longtime hosts now off the show, the BBC and Banijay are reportedly still hoping to air the final pre-recorded series of MasterChef, featuring both John and Gregg Wallace.
The BBC is treading carefully though, and the ultimate decision lies with director general Tim Davie, who has yet to green-light the broadcasts.
As one insider told The Sun, the situation has put both the broadcaster and production company in a very difficult position.
While Gregg’s exit was clearer due to upheld complaints of inappropriate behavior, John’s situation is being seen by some as less cut-and-dried.
A Bigger Picture Beyond the Scandal
There’s more than just viewer entertainment at stake.
Hundreds of contestants, crew members, and behind-the-scenes staff worked on the now-uncertain series.
Scrapping the episodes would be a huge blow to many, so the general consensus appears to be: let the show air—but only once things settle down.
The BBC hasn’t released an official comment yet, despite growing pressure and media interest.
The Incident That Sparked It All
John Torode’s dismissal came just hours after BBC leadership, including Tim Davie, publicly refrained from defending him amid serious allegations.
According to a report led by law firm Lewis Silkin, John was accused of using a highly offensive racial term during a social gathering after filming.
Though the comment wasn’t made during filming, the investigation—originally focused on Gregg Wallace’s behavior—ultimately substantiated the claim against John too.
The BBC issued a statement confirming the offensive language was verified and that such behavior is not tolerated, no matter where or when it occurs.
BBC Stands Firm on Values
While the MasterChef presenters are technically not BBC employees—since they’re contracted through Banijay—the BBC says it expects production partners to reflect the corporation’s values.
“We expect action to be taken,” Davie said. “It’s quite simple—if someone fails to live up to our standards, we act accordingly.”
Davie further emphasized that the programme is bigger than any one person, stating it can and should continue without its longtime hosts—so long as it operates within a respectful and inclusive culture.
John Says He’s “Shocked and Saddened”
In a statement earlier this week, John responded to the controversy with a mix of disappointment and disbelief.
He said he had no memory of using the alleged language and was “shocked and saddened” by the claim.
A source close to John had previously said that if the incident did happen, he had apologized immediately and never intended it as a slur.
They also noted that no formal complaint was made at the time—it only resurfaced during the inquiry into Gregg.
A Sudden Goodbye to a Long Career
John also addressed his abrupt exit from the show he’s hosted since its 2005 revival.
Expressing a deep fondness for MasterChef, he admitted he’d hoped for a more dignified departure.
“I had loved every minute,” he said, “but it’s time to pass the cutlery to someone else.”
Married to actress and former Celebrity MasterChef winner Lisa Faulkner, John hinted that he’s ready to explore new chapters, saying, “Life is ever-changing… sometimes personal happiness and fulfilment lay elsewhere.”