MasterChef presenting duo John Torode and Gregg Wallace have found themselves at the centre of explosive controversy, with shocking accusations emerging against both stars. An official investigation into Gregg's behaviour on the BBC One show has substantiated serious claims including his use of inappropriate sexual language, unwanted physical contact, and appearing inappropriately dressed on set. Whilst Gregg expressed being 'deeply sorry' for any upset caused, he suggested he 'would not be the last' celebrity to face such accountability.

Just hours later, his MasterChef co-presenter John Torode came forward to confirm that allegations of racist language against him had also been validated by the same report. The Australian chef maintained he had 'no recollection of the incident' and 'did not believe that it happened', yet opted to acknowledge his involvement in the claims 'for the sake of transparency'. The beloved BBC cookery programme's future now hangs in the balance, with the corporation confirming yesterday that no determinations have been reached regarding upcoming series, reports the Mirror.

Following the initial misconduct allegations against Gregg, John remained conspicuously silent on the matter. When Gregg subsequently resigned from his position, John's only public statement was that he 'loved being a part of the show' and would 'continue to be a part of it'.

In a candid 2017 interview with the Mirror, John admitted he was "never friends" with Gregg.

During his 2023 chat on the Desert Island Dishes podcast, John opened up about their unique bond, remarking: "He's a friend, don't get me wrong, but I don't go to the pub with him, We've both not been to each other's houses... we just don't do it."

John also touched on his severe OCD and how it would make a visit from Gregg awkward, quipping: "He says he's CDO because he wants it in the right order – that's one of his favourite jokes."

He highlighted the deep mutual respect between them, which has underpinned their successful working relationship for over two decades.

Yet, when first approached about teaming up on screen, John was sceptical. Recounting to The Independent, he said: "In 2005 I was asked to go to an interview about some cooking show and Karen Ross, the boss at Shine, the production company involved, said: 'I'd love you to do it, but I need to audition people to partner you with.' I had everyone from AA Gill to Oliver Peyton," he recalled.

Then came the suggestion of Gregg Wallace, which gave John pause due to Gregg's larger-than-life persona: "One day she asked, 'Do you know a guy called Gregg Wallace?' I had reservations, as Gregg was large, boisterous and noisy. Actually, nothing has changed, except no one anticipated the success the show would have."

He added:"We used to argue about stuff, as we're both so opinionated. In the first series it was over Thomasina Miers who went on to win that series.

"Gregg said, 'There's no way I want her.' Then in the second round he said, 'I want her.' And I said, 'You git, how can you despise someone one day then like them?'" John recounted.

Torode also lifted the lid on Gregg's quirky dressing room demands, revealing: "Don't put anything on my table, don't touch my stuff and stay on the left-hand side of the room until lunch."

Despite the tensions, John expressed a willingness to turn their working relationship into a genuine friendship, though he feels Gregg might not be on the same page: "It's frustrating, as I'm open to it, but I don't feel Gregg is."