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- Gregg Wallace says he is ‘deeply sorry’ after 45 MasterChef allegations are upheld (the-independent.com)
Gregg Wallace Expresses Remorse Following MasterChef Investigation
Television host Gregg Wallace has issued an apology for “any distress” caused after an independent MasterChef investigation substantiated 45 allegations of misconduct against him. The report, released Monday, details findings from an extensive probe into Wallace’s behavior, prompting the BBC to drop him from the popular cooking show.
Just hours before the report’s release, Wallace defended himself, stating he “never set out to harm or humiliate anyone.” He criticized the BBC for what he perceived as a “trial by media.” He maintained that none of the serious accusations were upheld, and while he challenged the claims of unwanted touching, he acknowledged a “difference in perception.”
The investigation, which included testimony from 78 witnesses, substantiated more than half of the 83 allegations against Wallace, primarily concerning incidents between 2005 and 2018. These included inappropriate sexual language, being in a state of undress, and one instance of unwelcome physical contact.
Wallace attributes some of his behavior to a recent autism diagnosis, which he says has provided insights into his communication style and how it’s perceived. He expressed gratitude for the support received from production company Banijay.
The BBC apologized to those affected by Wallace’s conduct, admitting that they “missed opportunities” to address the issues earlier. Banijay UK CEO Patrick Holland echoed the sentiment, acknowledging that escalation procedures were insufficient. The report revealed previous investigations into Wallace’s behavior in 2015 and 2017.
Karen Baxter, who led the seven-month investigation, noted the relevance of Wallace’s autism diagnosis, particularly concerning his use of humor and difficulty interpreting social cues. While Wallace acknowledges the diagnosis may offer some explanation, he stated he doesn’t wish to use it as an excuse.
The report also highlighted Wallace’s positive contributions to the show, describing him as energetic and humorous, often putting contestants at ease. However, some of his interactions and comments were deemed offensive or made colleagues and contestants uncomfortable.
Wallace preemptively addressed the report’s findings on social media earlier this month, expressing frustration with the BBC and maintaining that the investigation exonerated him of the most serious allegations. He apologized for any inappropriate language used between 2005 and 2018.
The future of the MasterChef series filmed last year, featuring Wallace, remains uncertain. The BBC is currently deliberating on its broadcast and plans to consult with the amateur contestants involved.
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- Gregg Wallace says he is ‘deeply sorry’ after 45 MasterChef allegations are upheld (the-independent.com)