While headlines have been buzzing over John Torode’s recent departure from MasterChef, his wife, actress and presenter Lisa Faulkner, has been reflecting on something much more personal—their marriage.
In a new interview, recorded before the BBC confirmed John would no longer appear on the show, Lisa gave a rare glimpse into their relationship and why she prefers to keep some things private.
Lisa Isn’t Bothered by Public Gossip Around Their Relationship
Lisa, 53, spoke openly to The Mirror, explaining that despite the public fascination with her marriage, she doesn’t really pay attention to the noise.
“I honestly have no idea why there’s such interest,” she admitted. “I don’t read anything about us.
I definitely don’t have Google alerts set up!”
The actress-turned-TV chef emphasized that while people might be curious, their relationship remains grounded and genuine.
“Maybe it’s because we really do have a lovely relationship,” she mused.
From MasterChef to Marriage
Lisa and John’s story began back in 2010 when she appeared on Celebrity MasterChef—and won.
Their friendship grew over time, eventually turning romantic in 2015.
Four years later, in October 2019, they tied the knot in a charming ceremony at Aynhoe Park in Oxfordshire.
Over the years, they’ve become a beloved TV duo, co-hosting John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen on ITV, where they share recipes and their easygoing chemistry with viewers.
What Makes Their Marriage Work
So, what’s the secret behind their strong bond? According to Lisa, it comes down to kindness and laughter.
“We have banter, but it’s never mean-spirited,” she said. “We’re just kind to each other.
We look out for one another and genuinely enjoy each other’s company.”
Even working together on television hasn’t caused friction.
Lisa explained they’re careful about giving each other space and make time to reconnect.
“We’re not in each other’s pockets. When we’re not working, we have a nice catch-up and just relax together.”
John Torode Dropped from MasterChef Over Alleged Racist Remark
The interview with Lisa surfaced just as news broke that John Torode had been dropped from MasterChef by BBC producers following an investigation into a past incident involving alleged racist language.
According to reports, John was accused of using the N-word while singing along to Kanye West’s “Gold Digger” during an after-work gathering about seven years ago.
It was claimed he repeated the word in a separate conversation, although a colleague reportedly said he used it “as an example” and apologized immediately afterward.
John has denied any recollection of the incident and expressed shock at the reports.
In a statement on Instagram, he said, “I repeat that I have no recollection of what I’m accused of.”
BBC Ends Partnership While ITV Stands By Him
Following an internal investigation, the BBC announced they would not be renewing John’s contract, stating he used an “extremely offensive racist term.”
Though the exact word wasn’t confirmed officially, multiple reports—including The Times—have identified it as the N-word.
Despite the controversy, ITV appears to be standing by John.
The network has confirmed that John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen will continue to air as scheduled, with new episodes running through the next few weeks.
ITV also reportedly plans to bring the couple back for their holiday special, John & Lisa’s Christmas Kitchen, later this year.
Mixed Reactions Behind the Scenes
Behind the scenes at MasterChef, there’s been some tension.
Sources close to the show claimed there was “relief” at his departure, describing John as “patronizing” and “difficult to work with.”
However, others have noted he had a long and successful run on the show and that his exit marks the end of an era.
John, who faced a total of nine allegations of inappropriate behavior from 2012 to 2019, was cleared in most of those cases.
But the upheld complaint related to the racial slur was enough for the BBC to part ways with him.
What’s Next for Lisa and John?
For now, Lisa remains focused on her work, her family, and maintaining the strong relationship she and John have nurtured over the years.
While she’s chosen not to publicly address the controversy, her words about kindness, connection, and respect speak volumes.
As for John, while his time on MasterChef may have ended, his partnership with Lisa—both on and off-screen—appears to be holding steady, at least for now.