Key Points
- A July investigation upheld 45 of 83 allegations of inappropriate behavior against MasterChef host Gregg Wallace.
- Penny Lancaster says she felt “humiliated” during her 2021 appearance on Celebrity MasterChef.
- Lancaster criticized Wallace’s initial defense, calling it dismissive and out of touch.
- Banijay UK and the BBC issued apologies for failing to act sooner on complaints.
- Wallace denies the allegations but expressed regret for any distress caused.
Lancaster Breaks Silence Following Misconduct Findings
Penny Lancaster is speaking publicly about her experience on Celebrity MasterChef after a formal investigation upheld dozens of misconduct allegations against longtime host Gregg Wallace. The inquiry, completed in July, substantiated 45 out of 83 claims, including reports of “unwelcome physical contact” and inappropriate workplace behavior.
The findings have reignited industry‑wide conversations about safety, accountability, and conduct behind the scenes of major television productions.
“Humiliated”: Lancaster Reflects on Her Time on the Show
Lancaster, who competed on the celebrity edition in 2021, said she felt “humiliated” by Wallace’s behavior during filming. In a recent interview, she expressed disbelief at Wallace’s initial attempt to dismiss the allegations by blaming “middle‑class women of a certain age.”
She called the remark a tone‑deaf attempt at deflection.
“It just goes to show that he has got away with it for so long, he doesn’t see what he has done wrong,” Lancaster said.
Her comments follow public criticism from her husband, Rod Stewart, who labeled Wallace a “tubby, bald-headed, ill‑mannered bully.” Lancaster admitted she was surprised by Stewart’s blunt remarks and wished he had warned her beforehand so she could prepare for media attention.
Production Company and BBC Issue Apologies
The investigation prompted a public apology from Patrick Holland, CEO of Banijay UK, which produces MasterChef. Holland acknowledged that internal procedures “were not as robust as they should have been” and apologized to anyone who felt unable to report concerns earlier.
The BBC, which airs the series, also issued a statement accepting responsibility for not acting sooner.
“We accept more could and should have been done,” a spokesperson said, emphasizing the broadcaster’s commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful workplace.
Wallace Responds as Backlash Grows
Wallace has faced mounting criticism as allegations detail a pattern of inappropriate conduct, including sexual jokes and requests for personal contact information from female staff. While he denies wrongdoing, he has expressed regret for any discomfort caused during his time on the show.
The scandal has intensified scrutiny of workplace culture in entertainment, particularly in high‑pressure environments where junior staff may feel unable to speak up.
What Happens Next
The investigation has prompted calls for stronger reporting systems and clearer accountability structures across the industry. As production companies reassess their internal policies, Lancaster’s comments add to a growing chorus urging meaningful change.
Whether Wallace will continue in his role on MasterChef remains unclear, but the fallout has already reshaped conversations about conduct and responsibility in unscripted television.
