FRESH START
Grace Dent seen for the first time since replacing Gregg Wallace on MasterChef
Torode's wife Lisa has thrown her support behind Grace
NEW MasterChef host Grace Dent has been pictured for the first time since being confirmed as Gregg Wallace's replacement.
The restaurant critic, 51, looked stylish in a black trench coat, ankle boots and a chunky multicoloured scarf.
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Her appointment ahead of the 20th series has been well received by MasterChef viewers, her new co-host John Torode and Torode's wife Lisa.
There was no mention of outgoing host Gregg Wallace, who is being investigated following at least 13 complaints from women of inappropriate behaviour over the last 17 years, in the press release confirming Grace for the role.
A post, originally shared by the BBC, said: "Grace Dent steps in as judge for Celebrity MasterChef 2025."
A comment from John followed - and there was no mention of his co-star Gregg.
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"I have loved working with Grace on MasterChef over the years," the Australian chef said.
"She has been an excellent guest, an inspiring critic and also set some incredible challenges.
"Expertise is what MasterChef is all about, from the contestants to our wonderful production team, to us as judges.
"The love of food, the love of MasterChef, and that unquestionable expertise, makes Grace the perfect person to step in alongside me as judge for the forthcoming Celebrity MasterChef series.”
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Lisa shared her excitement about Grace's new job, commenting with three 'raising hands' emojis and one red heart. She added: "Go Grace!"
Replying to her message, a fan told her: "@lisafaulknercooks I'm so pleased for Grace and us as well. Love her."
Gregg Wallace admits 'I'm f****d' & tells pals he fears MasterChef will sack him after 'grope' probe
The show’s production firm, Banijay UK, launched a probe last month after complaints the Wallace had groped or harassed them.
The former greengrocer had been scheduled to appear on the BBC several times this Christmas but these episodes have now been axed.
Despite strongly denying any wrongdoing, Gregg resigned himself to getting the sack, telling friends: "I'm f***ed".
Speaking of her new job, Grace said: "I've been watching MasterChef since I was a girl sitting with my dad on the sofa. My whole family watches it.
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Gregg Wallace - MasterChef scandal in Brief
GREGG Wallace has stepped down from his MasterChef hosting role after a probe into alleged inappropriate behaviour. But what's the situation?
Regular MasterChef host Gregg Wallace is currently the subject of a probe after an investigation was launched into his alleged misconduct over a number of years.
Gregg has been accused of making sexual remarks to 13 colleagues including Beeb anchor Kirsty Wark - accusations he denies.
The 60-year-old has now stepped away from the BBC show while historical misconduct allegations against him are investigated.
Yet the former greengrocer spoke out on social media to blast the ";women of a certain age" who he claimed were behind the allegations.
The cooking show’s production company, Banijay UK, has said law firm Lewis Silkin would lead the investigation into Wallace’s alleged misconduct.
"It's all about uncovering and championing talent - and to have ended up in this position, is more than a dream to me.
"I'm so excited that I can't eat, which is severely detrimental to a restaurant critic.
"I feel very lucky to be stepping in for the next Celebrity MasterChef.
"I can't wait to meet the fresh celebrity faces for 2025."
A TV source said: “Grace is the perfect choice to replace Gregg on Masterchef.
"She’s knowledgeable about food and opinionated, plus it’s great to have a woman as a judge on the show. It will shake things up and give the series the boost it needs after such an upsetting and uncertain time.
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“She is already a fan favourite and has won lots of respect in the foodie world thanks to her no-nonsense style and sense of humour.
“Bosses love her already, know she is a safe pair of hands and trust her to help steer the ship with John to steadier waters.”
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