Gregg Wallace says he’s been axed by the BBC following a nine-month investigation into misconduct claims.
The former MasterChef presenter, 60, announced his departure in a lengthy Instagram statement, marking the end of his 21-year run with the broadcaster.
While an official report is expected to be published on Thursday, Wallace said he chose to go public after being informed of the outcome by production company Banijay.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Wallace addressed the outcome, confirming he had been cleared of the most serious claims, including accusations of inappropriate physical behaviour.
He wrote: “I have taken the decision to speak out ahead of the publication of the Silkins report - a decision I do not take lightly.
“But after 21 years of loyal service to the BBC, I cannot sit in silence while my reputation is further damaged to protect others.
“I have now been cleared by the Silkins report of the most serious and sensational accusations made against me,” he continued.
“The most damaging claims (including allegations from public figures which have not been upheld) were found to be baseless after a full and forensic six-month investigation.”
In his extended statement, he criticised the BBC for what he described as a “dangerous” failure to accommodate his neurodiversity.
Adding: “I will not go quietly. I will not be cancelled for convenience. I was tried by media and hung out to dry well before the facts were established. The full story of this incredible injustice must be told and it is very much a matter of public interest.”
While the full report is expected to be published on Thursday, sources say his legal team has already been given an indication of its findings.
A source told The Sun: “Gregg is both furious and devastated about how things have played out. His team have seen the report and believe he is cleared of the most serious wrongdoing allegations, so he has taken great consolation from that.
“Whilst he is not excusing his inappropriate comments and innuendos - some of which he has been found against - on his recent autism diagnosis, this has been a mitigating factor. He has also been cleared of some of the higher profile allegations, including those brought on by Penny Lancaster and Kirsty Wark, but the BBC has made it clear there is no way back for him.
“He is devastated. There have been so many people involved in all of this and obviously everyone, bar Gregg who now has nothing to lose, has a vested interest in protecting the money-spinning Masterchef brand.”
A BBC spokesperson said: “Banijay UK instructed the law firm Lewis Silkin to run an investigation into allegations against Gregg Wallace. We are not going to comment until the investigation is complete and the findings are published.”
The Standard has contacted Masterchef production company Banijay for comment.
Wallace had been a regular fixture on BBC screens for almost two decades, best known for co-hosting MasterChef, Celebrity MasterChef and MasterChef: The Professionals alongside co-judge John Torode.
Only days ago Wallace had announced his new career as a personal trainer.
