MasterChef host Gregg Wallace has broken his silence for the first time since the news was announced that he was stepping down from his role.
Posting a video to Instagram, he explained: “I would like to thank all the people getting in touch, reaching out and showing their support.
“That’s good of you, thank you very much.”
The BBC star was clearly emotional when issuing his brief message to his followers, which was then flooded with support from long-term fans of the show and Wallace.
One fan penned underneath the post: “Masterchef will never be the same Gregg. My Mum told me when I was out and I was so upset. Always remember you are amazing and please don’t ever forget how many people support you. Sending love.”
Another added: “I love you in Masterchef, you make it what it is. I hope this period in your life passes quickly and happier times return.”
Someone else added: “Bless you. I’m sure if any comments were made – they were made in jest. I guess it’s the price of fame. Big hugs x”
“I think you’re brilliant, won’t watch Masterchef without you,” a fourth quipped before another expressed: “We’ll miss seeing you on MasterChef. It won’t be the same without you.”
A sixth wrote: “Woke BBC mate… Can’t say anything these days… Good luck mate.” (sic)
The star has been axed from the series due to a series of complaints being made to the BBC from individuals about historical allegations of misconduct being investigated.
It comes after a separate BBC review found he could continue working at the corporation following reports of an alleged 2018 incident.
A statement from Banijay UK said: “This week the BBC received complaints from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows.
“Whilst these complainants have not raised the allegations directly with our show producers or parent company Banijay UK, we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate.
“While this review is underway, Gregg Wallace will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef and is committed to fully co-operating throughout the process.
“Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always a priority and our expectations regarding behaviour are made clear to both cast and crew on all productions, with multiple ways of raising concerns, including anonymously, clearly promoted on set.
“Whilst these are historical allegations, incidences brought to our attention where these expectations are not met, are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately.
“If anyone would like to talk to us or raise any issues or concerns, then they can contact speakupbanijayuk.com in confidence.”
One person who isn’t in support of Wallace is singer and performer Rod Stewart who issued a scathing rant about the star after he “humilated” his wife, Penny Lancaster, whilst she was on the show in 2021.
He angrily penned on Instagram: “So Greg Wallace gets fired from MasterChef. Good riddance Wallace…
“You humiliated my wife when she was on the show, but you had that bit cut out didn’t you? You’re a tubby, bald-headed, ill-mannered bully. Karma got ya. Sir Rod Stewart.”
