After years of being a familiar face in British households as the co-host of MasterChef, John Torode has found himself at the center of serious controversy—one that’s cost him his spot on the show.
What was once a celebrated culinary career is now clouded by an allegation that has stunned fans and sparked heated debate across the media and online.
The Allegation That Changed Everything
According to multiple reports, Torode, 59, was dropped from MasterChef after an independent investigation found that he used a highly offensive racial slur during a casual evening out with colleagues around six or seven years ago.
The incident allegedly took place after filming, during after-work drinks, while Torode was singing along to Kanye West’s Gold Digger.
Sources say he used the N-word while singing, and then again during a conversation with a production team member—who reportedly did not take offense at the time.
However, another individual is said to have overheard the exchange and later made a complaint.
Torode Claims No Memory of the Incident
Torode has firmly denied the allegation, insisting he has “no recollection” of ever saying anything racist.
In a lengthy Instagram statement, he expressed shock over the reports and claimed he hadn’t even been officially informed of his termination by the BBC or the show’s producers, Banijay.
But others involved in the investigation have pushed back against that claim, with insiders saying Torode was in fact informed and even offered a second chance—time off, along with mandatory training—to remain part of the show.
Reportedly, he refused the offer, continuing to deny the incident ever took place.
BBC and Banijay Respond
The BBC announced earlier this week that Torode’s contract would not be renewed, stating that the report’s findings confirmed the use of an “extremely offensive racist term” and that they took the outcome “extremely seriously.”
Though they haven’t publicly named the term used, TV presenter and producer Richard Osman referred to it as “the worst racial slur there is” on his podcast, and indicated that the evidence supporting the claim was deemed credible.
Despite being an external contractor rather than a direct BBC employee, the broadcaster said it expected Banijay, the production company, to act appropriately—and it appears they did.
More Claims Surface About Torode’s Behavior
Beyond this central incident, nine total complaints were made about Torode’s behavior between 2012 and 2019.
While two were found to be unprovable and six lacked strong evidence, the racism allegation was upheld.
Sources close to the show told reporters that some team members were quietly relieved about his departure, describing Torode as “rude” and “patronising” on set.
Torode Considering Legal Action
Despite the fallout, Torode may not be backing down.
Reports suggest he is considering legal action for unfair dismissal, arguing that there is no solid proof of wrongdoing and that the complaint is based on hearsay from a casual setting.
However, this legal move may be complicated by the fact that his contract was with Banijay, not the BBC.
What’s Next for MasterChef?
As for MasterChef itself, the future of the next two series—already filmed—remains uncertain.
They feature Torode and a new co-host, Grace Dent, following Gregg Wallace’s own exit due to separate misconduct allegations.
While BBC insiders are leaning toward airing the shows once media attention dies down, Director General Tim Davie has not yet made a final call.
The BBC Stands Firm
Davie, speaking during the release of the BBC’s annual report, made it clear that the organization expects its partners to uphold high ethical standards.
He emphasized that great shows are bigger than individual stars, and that the integrity of programming depends on maintaining a respectful and inclusive culture.
Final Thoughts
This story isn’t just about a TV personality—it raises bigger questions about accountability, memory, intent, and how organizations should handle serious allegations.
Whether or not Torode pursues legal action, his departure marks a turning point for MasterChef and perhaps for how legacy media handles misconduct behind the scenes.