Is John Torode Leaving MasterChef?
Yes, John Torode is leaving MasterCheft and will not be returning. The BBC and production company Banijay UK have confirmed that Torode's contract has not been renewed following an upheld allegation that he used “an extremely offensive racist term” in the workplace. The incident, part of a months-long independent investigation originally sparked by complaints against Gregg Wallace, has thrown the show into a major crisis.
Torode responded that he had "no recollection" of the alleged event, stating on Instagram:
“Although I haven't heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay, I am seeing and reading that I've been 'sacked' from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I'm accused of. I'd hoped that I'd have some say in my exit from a show I've worked on since its relaunch in 2005, but events in the last few days seem to have prevented that.”
— John Torode, Instagram, July 2025
https://www.instagram.com/p/DMIyRGDsn6h/
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Early 2025 | Allegations surface against Gregg Wallace |
| July 2025 | Investigation upholds a complaint against John Torode for racist language |
| July 15, 2025 | BBC and Banijay announce Torode's contract will not be renewed |
| July 16, 2025 | Torode expresses heartbreak at public revelations, learned about his dismissal via news |
Who Will Replace John Torode on MasterChef?
Front-Runners for the Role
With BBC planning a “reset” for the show in the wake of these exits, speculation and betting odds point to several top contenders:
| Chef/Critic | Credentials & Background | Odds (as of July 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Andi Oliver | BBC's Great British Menu host, award-winning chef | 5/2 (favourite) |
| Tom Kerridge | Multi-Michelin-starred chef, TV regular | 3/1 |
| Poppy O'Toole | TikTok & BBC Young MasterChef presenter | 4/1 |
| Angela Hartnett | Michelin-starred chef, restaurant owner | 5/1 |
| Nadiya Hussain | Bake Off winner, author | 6/1 |
| Matt Tebbutt | Host of Saturday Kitchen, fan favourite | Reported contender |
| Grace Dent | Food critic, already confirmed for Celebrity MasterChef judge | For Celebrity MC |
Potential Game Changers
Andi Oliver, if selected, would make history as the first Black presenter on UK MasterChef in its 35-year run. Social media has responded positively, highlighting the need for diverse voices at the judge’s table.
Who is John Torode?
John Torode is a renowned Australian-British chef and television personality, best known for co-presenting the BBC's MasterChef since its 2005 relaunch. Born on July 23, 1965, in Melbourne, Australia, Torode began his culinary journey at 16 and moved to the UK in 1991 to further his career.
He worked at prestigious restaurants like Le Pont de la Tour and Quaglino's under the Conran Group, eventually becoming the head chef at Mezzo in Soho.
https://www.instagram.com/p/DH_aEgZO36a/
MasterChef Moving Forward: What’s Next?
The next regular season’s future remains uncertain, with the BBC yet to confirm if pre-filmed episodes will air or if an interim presenting team will be brought on immediately.
There are calls for MasterChef to reshape its judging format, possibly mirroring a more mentor-driven or guest-judge format (as in MasterChef Australia).
Commissioners have stated a commitment to “reset” and uphold BBC values moving forward.
FAQ
Question 1: Why was John Torode fired from MasterChef?
Answer: John Torode’s contract was not renewed following an investigation that substantiated an allegation of racist language used in the workplace. Torode denies recollection of the incident but has expressed shock and sadness at the outcome.
Question 2: Will Gregg Wallace return?
Answer: No, Gregg Wallace was terminated days before Torode for multiple inappropriate conduct allegations, as validated by a lengthy investigation.
Question 3: Who will replace John Torode as a judge?
Answer: Official replacements have not been confirmed, but bookies and media speculation point to Andi Oliver, Tom Kerridge, Grace Dent, Matt Tebbutt, and others as top contenders.
Disclaimer:
The information provided regarding John Torode's departure from MasterChef, the investigation, and future replacements is based on current reports, speculation, and official statements as of July 2025. The details, including potential replacements and changes to the show's format, are subject to confirmation by the BBC and production companies. The timeline of events and the provided betting odds reflect publicly available information and may change as more official details emerge. Always refer to reliable sources and official announcements for the latest updates.
