Friday, December 20, 2024

Ainsley Harriott defends Gregg Wallace and says what MasterChef is really like

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Kirstie Allsopp and Kirsty Wark are among those who have publicly criticised Gregg Wallace for his behaviour but the unde-fire presenter has now been defended by Ainsley Harriott

Ainsley Harriott and Gregg Wallace filmed together for Celebrity MasterChef (Image: Grab)

Ainsley Harriott has jumped to the defence of under-fire Gregg Wallace.

The TV chefs worked together on an episode of Celebrity MasterChef just months ago and he insists it was a great experience.

He told the Daily Star: “It was great. Absolutely fantastic. The whole operation.

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“If you look at a programme, it’s been successful for many, many, many years and there’s a reason why. And the reason is that the format is fantastic.

Ainsley Harriott
Ainsley Harriott attended the National Diversity Awards at Liverpool Cathedral in February (Image: Getty Images)

“Being able to go on there and have other people experience your recipes, is what I was really excited about.

“Sharing that with the guys, the whole crew, including Gregg, was fantastic.

“That’s all I can say. I had a great experience.”

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Ainsley’s comments are a world away from the claims made by many stars who have worked with Gregg.

Gregg Wallace
His future in the industry remains uncertain (Image: BBC)
Gregg Wallace
Gregg Wallace pictured in July of last year (Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Presenters Kirstie Allsopp and Kirsty Wark are among those who have slammed his behaviour.

Gregg has been axed from MasterChef while the BBC probes claims about his behaviour on set and episodes have been pulled from the schedule.

Meanwhile there is speculation he will soon be replaced by bosses. Ainsley isn’t ruling out taking on the job hosting alongside John Torode. He said: “I don’t know if I’d do it. I mean, that is a tough gig, isn’t it?”

It has reportedly been confirmed by the BBC that the cooking show will air for at least another four years. MasterChef’s future had been questioned after host Gregg Wallace stepped away from the show following complaints against him.

The 60-year-old TV presenter has been accused by 13 people of making inappropriate sexual remarks across several shows over a 17-year period. He has stepped away from his role hosting MasterChef as the complaints against him are investigated.

Wallace has previously denied making inappropriate sexual comments and his lawyers told BBC News ‘it is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature’. Wallace is also accused of groping individuals.

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