MasterChef: What to know about Grace Dent replacing Gregg Wallace

Food critic and author, Grace Dent will be stepping into the role of co-host for Celebrity MasterChef after Gregg Wallace’s departure due to allegations against him.

This move marks an exciting new chapter for the show, with Dent bringing her extensive expertise and enthusiasm to the role alongside long-time host John Torode. Here’s what to know about Dent’s new position and the circumstances surrounding Wallace’s exit.

1. Grace Dent’s Appointment as Host

Grace Dent, widely known for her work as a restaurant critic for The Guardian and as the host of the Comfort Eating with Grace Dent podcast, will take over as host of Celebrity MasterChef for the upcoming 2025 series. Dent, who has appeared regularly as a guest on the show, expressed her excitement about hosting. She described it as “more than a dream to me,” adding, “I’m so excited that I can’t eat, which is severely detrimental to a restaurant critic.”

2. John Torode’s Support for Dent

John Torode, who has been a fixture on MasterChef since 2005, will continue to co-host with Dent. He praised her as an ideal choice to take the reins, highlighting her “unquestionable expertise” and passion for food. Torode said, “I have loved working with Grace on MasterChef over the years. She has been an excellent guest, an inspiring critic, and also set some incredible challenges,” emphasising the strong partnership they will bring to the show.

3. Gregg Wallace Steps Down Amid Allegations

Gregg Wallace’s departure from the show follows a BBC News investigation into allegations of inappropriate sexual comments made by Wallace toward 13 individuals who worked with him. Wallace’s legal team has denied these accusations, asserting that “it is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.” His exit has prompted a reshuffling of the show’s lineup for the 2025 series.

4. Dent’s Background and Experience

In addition to her work as a critic, Dent is well-known for her brief stint on I’m a Celebrity in 2023, where she left after just one week on medical grounds. Her long history with MasterChef as both a guest and a contestant on MasterChef: Battle of the Critics has made her a familiar face to fans of the show. Dent’s expertise in food and her natural charisma make her an exciting new presence for Celebrity MasterChef.

5. What’s Next for MasterChef

While Celebrity MasterChef will see Dent as its new host in 2025, it remains uncertain whether she will replace Wallace on other MasterChef franchises. Meanwhile, MasterChef (Amateurs) is currently in production. The BBC has pulled its MasterChef Christmas specials following the allegations against Wallace, but the show continues to be a fan favourite with Dent’s fresh leadership on the horizon.

Dent’s appointment is a significant shift for the show, one that fans will surely be eager to see unfold in the coming months.

(BBC)

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