BBC cancels MasterChef Christmas specials over Gregg Wallace allegations

The BBC has pulled two MasterChef Christmas specials from its schedules after allegations about presenter Gregg Wallace.

The broadcaster said the previously announced Celebrity MasterChef Cook-off and a Strictly Come Dancing-themed Strictly Festive Extravaganza would no longer form part of its festive line-up.

However, a BBC spokesperson confirmed the current series of MasterChef: The Professionals will continue to air as planned.

Wallace stepped aside from presenting the cookery show last week following allegations of inappropriate comments and behaviour made against him.

His lawyers have denied the accusations and production company Banijay UK has launched an investigation, which Wallace is co-operating with.

A BBC spokesperson said: “As we have said, MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the chefs taking part and the current series of MasterChef: The Professionals is continuing as planned.

“The celebrity Christmas specials are obviously a different type of show and in the current circumstances we have decided not to broadcast them.”

Wallace yesterday apologised for suggesting allegations made against him came from “a handful of middle class women of a certain age”.

In a video posted on his Instagram story on Monday, he said: “It’s obvious to me I need to take some time out while this investigation is under way. I hope you understand and I do hope that you will accept this apology."

Wallace has been co-presenter of MasterChef since 2005 and MasterChef: The Professionals since 2008.