Rod Stewart, the co-presenter and one of the judges at MasterChef, has stepped away from the show due to allegations of misconduct. While investigations against him continue, singer Rod Stewart shared his opinion on social media regarding the television personality. So, what were Rod Stewart’s thoughts about Gregg Wallace?
Here is everything you need to know about the case and the conflict between the pop sensation and the reality TV star.
Rod Stewart accuses Gregg Wallace of humiliating his wife
Women on the set of MasterChef have accused Gregg Wallace of inappropriate behavior.
Kirsty Wark, a former BBC Newsnight host and Celebrity MasterChef contestant, is among the primary accusers. She told BBC News that Wallace made sexual remarks and jokes twice in front of the cast and crew. Wark said his behavior left everyone uncomfortable and embarrassed.
An anonymous woman who worked on MasterChef also accused Wallace of inappropriate conduct. She claimed he openly discussed his sex life on set. According to The Telegraph, a former production team member alleged Wallace mimicked a sexual act while she was kneeling to clean his trousers. Another staff member from BBC Good Food accused him of staring at her chest. A male colleague added that Wallace often made sexually provocative comments.
Wallace’s lawyers have denied all allegations. Banijay UK, the show’s production company, said they are conducting an external review and confirmed Wallace is cooperating fully.
In light of the allegations, Rod Stewart publicly condemned Wallace, calling his departure “good riddance.” Stewart accused Wallace of humiliating his wife, Penny Lancaster, during her appearance on Celebrity MasterChef in 2021. On Instagram, Stewart referred to Wallace as a “tubby, bald-headed, ill-mannered bully,” claiming Wallace ensured the segment where he humiliated Lancaster was cut from the show.
Lancaster competed in the 16th season of Celebrity MasterChef and was eliminated in the semi-finals after Wallace and co-host John Torode criticized her time management. This is not Wallace’s first controversy. In 2023, he left the BBC show Inside the Factory after allegations of inappropriate comments to staff. The current inquiry stems from claims by a former MasterChef team member and others accusing him of misconduct.
The BBC stated it does not tolerate behavior below its standards. Banijay UK also affirmed its commitment to a thorough and impartial investigation.
