MasterChef UK Series 21: A Season of Unprecedented Upheaval
Airing and Format: The 21st series of MasterChef UK premiered on August 6, 2025, with narration by India Fisher and initial hosting duties handled by the veteran duo Gregg Wallace and John Torode.
Misconduct Investigation Fallout: Midway through filming, Gregg Wallace stepped down due to an investigation that substantiated 45 out of 83 misconduct allegations, including inappropriate sexual language and one instance of unwelcome physical contact.
John Torode’s Removal: Amid the crisis, John Torode was also dropped from the series after an upheld accusation of using a racist term during filming.
Edited Release: The BBC proceeded to air the already-recorded series after re-editing footage, removing the disgraced hosts, and received a mixed to negative critical response.
Viewer Reaction: One contestant, Sarah Shafi from Leeds, publicly objected to the show’s broadcast on ethical grounds, emphasizing how broadcasting the series in the wake of misconduct allegations could undermine accountability. She initially asked for the show to be pulled altogether, eventually consenting to be edited out of the final broadcast.
Another participant reportedly made the same request, resulting in a rare and highly challenging edit down to only five contestants per episode.
Televisual Disruption: Media critics referred to this season as one of the most surreal and disjointed in recent memory, an experience likened to a psychological thriller rather than a light-hearted cooking competition.
Hosting Turmoil Continues: During preparations for the next series, chef Tom Kerridge was briefly tapped as Wallace’s replacement alongside restaurant critic Grace Dent, but he subsequently withdrew due to contract and pay disputes. Alternatives like Matt Tebbutt and Andi Oliver are reportedly under consideration.