Gregg Wallace’s TV rival ‘pulls ahead in race to replace shamed star on MasterChef’

TV’s top rival GREGG Wallace is being “pulled ahead” in the race to replace him on MasterChef.

The former greengrocer has resigned as co-host of the BBC show as he is investigated over a series of complaints of off-screen misconduct.

Gregg Wallace’s TV rival ‘pulls ahead’ in race to replace disgraced MasterChef starCredit: BBC

Gregg has ‘stepped down’ from the BBC series following an investigation into potential misconductCredit: BBC

Fan favorite James Martin is a very popular TV chef Credit: Rex

Gregg is accused of making sexual remarks to 13 TV colleagues, including Beeb presenter Kirsty Wark – allegations he denies.

However, the 60-year-old has now stepped down from the long-running show as the historic allegations against him are investigated.

And with his departure, fellow TV chef James Martin, 52, is a candidate to replace him in the role, according to bookmakers.

The fan-favourite Yorkshireman headlines James Martin’s ITV series Saturday Morning after previously fronting the BBC’s Saturday Kitchen.

Now it’s claimed his “impressive” career could replace Gregg and front MasterChef alongside John Torode, 59.

Bookmakers BetFred rated him as favourite, with odds of 5/2 to replace Gregg.

However, John’s wife Lisa Faulkner is in the frame with odds of 3/1, Nigella Lawson at 4/1 and Gino D’Acampo at 5/1.

Betfred spokeswoman Kayley Cornelius said: “With Gregg Wallace unlikely to return to MasterChef, the big question is who could step in to replace him.

“Currently, TV chef James Martin is the bookies’ favorite to take on the role of the new face of the iconic series, with odds of 5/2.

“With experience hosting Saturday Kitchen and appearing regularly on This Morning, the primetime show could be the perfect next step in James’ already impressive career.”

John Torode has broken his silence on allegations made by fellow MasterChef Gregg Wallace

Before the scandal broke, Gregg opened up about his plans to “scale back” his MasterChef duties – but said

FAN FAVE

BBC One star Gregg joined the show in 2005 and has also been on the panel of MasterChef: The Professionals and Celebrity MasterChef.

However, the former greengrocer sparked outrage when he spoke out on social media this weekend and slammed “women of a certain age” who had complained to him.

He then apologized and said he would “take time” amid the investigation.

MasterChef regular Grace Dent’s stall recently appeared to backfire on the star – as fans begged her to replace him.

Gregg Wallace – MasterChef scandal in a nutshell

GREGG Wallace has stepped down from his role as MasterChef host following an investigation into alleged inappropriate behaviour. But what is the situation?

MasterChef regular host Gregg Wallace is currently under investigation following an investigation into his alleged misconduct over a number of years.

Gregg is accused of making sexual remarks to 13 colleagues, including Beeb presenter Kirsty Wark – allegations he denies.

The 60-year-old has now stepped down from the BBC show while the historic allegations against him are investigated.

However, the former greengrocer took to social media to condemn the “women of a certain age” who he claimed were behind the allegations.

The cooking show’s production company, Banijay UK, said law firm Lewis Silkin would lead an investigation into Wallace’s alleged misconduct.

CURRENT STATE

MasterChef production company Banijay UK said law firm Lewis Silkin would be investigating Wallace’s alleged misconduct.

They also confirmed that Gregg will be “retiring” from MasterChef.

It said: “This week the BBC received complaints from individuals regarding historic allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows.

“While this review is ongoing, Gregg Wallace will be stepping back from his role on MasterChef and is committed to co-operating fully throughout the process.

“Banijay UK’s duty of care to staff is always a priority and our expectations of behavior are clearly communicated to both cast and crew in all productions.”

Gregg – married to Anne-Marie Sterpini – hit back, claiming: “The allegations were investigated six years ago and my comments were found not to be sexual. I repeat, not sexually. Thank you all for your time.”

Last year he stepped down from another BBC show, Inside The Factory, amid allegations he was “rude to staff and continued to speak in a derogatory manner, particularly to women”.