Is Nobody Telling Him to Shut Up?’ Lorraine Kelly Slams Gregg for Breaking the Silence
Lorraine Kelly has shared her thoughts on the allegations against MasterChef host Gregg Wallace, as the BBC investigates historical misconduct claims made by individuals against the TV presenter. The allegations, which include inappropriate comments and actions, have sparked significant controversy, reports Birmingham Live.
The accusations claim that Gregg discussed his s*x life openly, removed his top in front of a female employee while suggesting he wanted to “give her a fashion show,” and told a junior female colleague that he wasn’t wearing any boxer shorts under his jeans. Gregg has strongly denied these allegations, stating, “This isn’t right.”
On her ITV programme, Lorraine Kelly suggested that Gregg should adopt a “dignified silence” in response to the claims. She said, “You know, just sometimes, just don’t, have a dignified silence and collect yourself.” She added, “I mean, I am quite astounded that he made that statement. Is nobody advising him? Is nobody saying ‘shut up, just be quiet right now?’”
Lorraine went on to reference a statement made by Gregg’s lawyer, who denied the allegations: “It is entirely false that he, Gregg, engages in behaviour of a s*xually harassing nature”, reported by the Express.
The BBC has confirmed that it received complaints related to Gregg Wallace’s past conduct, prompting an external review of the situation. In a statement, the BBC explained, “We have received complaints from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows.” The network has emphasized its commitment to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation while Gregg steps away from his role on MasterChef.
Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef, also expressed its commitment to staff wellbeing and clarified that all concerns, including anonymous ones, are taken seriously. They assured that any incidents that do not meet their expectations of behaviour are investigated thoroughly.
Gregg Wallace responded to the allegations over the weekend, taking to social media to defend himself. He pointed out that in his long career working with over 4,000 contestants, only 13 complaints have been raised, most of which came from a “handful of middle-class women of a certain age” from Celebrity MasterChef. He concluded, “In 20 years…do you know how many staff, all different sorts of staff, do you know how many staff complained about me in that time? Absolutely none. Zero. Seriously.”
The ongoing investigation continues, and the BBC has made it clear that any behaviour falling below their expected standards will not be tolerated.