The BBC has confirmed that the amateur series of MasterChef, filmed last year before the sacking of Gregg Wallace and John Torode, will still air in full.
Earlier this month, a report revealed that more than 40 complaints against Wallace relating to inappropriate and unprofessional behaviour had been upheld, while a separate claim that Torode had used a severely offensive racist term during filming was also substantiated.
There had previously been questions over the fate of the pre-recorded episodes and how the presenters would be edited. However, the series will now be broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from August 6.
In a statement, the BBC said the decision had been made "after careful consideration and consultation with the contestants".
"MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the amateur chefs taking part. The focus of it has always been their skill and their journey,” it said.
"This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it. In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters.
"We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC.
"However, we believe that broadcasting this series is the right thing to do for these cooks who have given so much to the process. We want them to be properly recognised and give the audience the choice to watch the series."
The BBC added that no decision had yet been made on the fate of the completed Celebrity MasterChef series or the Christmas special, which were filmed with Torode and food critic Grace Dent.
BBC News reported that the programme’s editing is under review in light of the findings, with a focus likely to be placed on the contestants rather than the presenters. However, given Wallace and Torode’s central roles, their appearances will be difficult to fully minimise.
Former contestants on the show have previously told BBC News that participating in MasterChef can be “life-changing” for them. Many praised the platform for showcasing their culinary skills and providing new opportunities.
However, some of the women who came forward with allegations against Wallace have expressed concerns about the series being broadcast. One former MasterChef worker said airing the programme now would demonstrate “a real lack of respect” for those who have spoken out, while another warned it could “make a mockery” of their experiences.
