John Torode was a fixture on British television for two decades. As the face of MasterChef alongside Gregg Wallace, he became a household name. But in July 2025, everything changed. The Australian-born chef was sacked from the BBC show following an investigation into allegations of workplace misconduct [citation:1][citation:5]. In 2026, searches for “John Torode” remain high as fans wonder what happened and where he is now. This guide covers the allegation, his response, his emotional tribute to Grace Dent, and his life after MasterChef.
What Was John Torode Accused Of?
In July 2025, an independent investigation by law firm Lewis Silkin into allegations against Gregg Wallace also uncovered complaints against two other individuals on the MasterChef set. John Torode voluntarily identified himself as one of them [citation:1][citation:6].
The allegation stated that Torode used “an extremely offensive racist term” in the workplace [citation:5][citation:6]. The incident allegedly occurred in 2018 during a social situation [citation:1]. The person he was speaking with did not believe the remark was intended maliciously, and Torode reportedly apologised immediately afterwards [citation:1].
The Lewis Silkin report substantiated the complaint. The BBC and production company Banijay UK subsequently agreed that Torode’s contract would not be renewed [citation:6][citation:7].
What Did John Torode Say in His Defence?
Torode took to Instagram in July 2025 to address the allegation directly. His statement was clear and firm [citation:1][citation:9].
“I have absolutely no recollection of any of this, and I do not believe that it happened,” he wrote [citation:1]. He acknowledged that the allegation claimed he had apologised immediately afterwards, but he maintained his innocence.
However, he added: “I want to be clear that I’ve always had the view that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. I’m shocked and saddened by the allegation as I would never wish to cause anyone any offence” [citation:1].
Despite his denial, the BBC and Banijay stood by the investigation’s findings. A BBC spokesperson said: “We will not tolerate racist language of any kind” [citation:6][citation:7].
John Torode’s Tribute to Grace Dent: ‘A Strong Extraordinary Woman’
In January 2026, Torode broke his silence to praise his MasterChef replacement, food critic Grace Dent. Writing on his Substack, he delivered an emotional tribute [citation:2][citation:3][citation:6].
“Grace Dent: What a strong extraordinary woman,” he wrote. “Grace stands up for all that she believes in and supports” [citation:2][citation:6].
He added: “Graceful and never scared of doing the right thing or worried that the cult might too ostracise her. It was a privilege to stand by her side. Her support unfailing” [citation:2][citation:3].
His reference to “the cult” was seen as a subtle swipe at his critics and the BBC establishment that he felt had ostracised him [citation:2][citation:6].
Grace Dent’s Support for Torode
Dent has consistently spoken warmly of Torode. She previously called him “one of the kindest, most concerned, clever, thoughtful men that I know” [citation:2][citation:9]. After the Celebrity MasterChef final aired, she posted pictures of the pair together, writing: “And that’s a wrap. Celebrity MasterChef over and out… My brilliant sidekick. Love you all” [citation:3].
Torode replied: “And bloody love you too Grace” [citation:3].
However, Dent has also moved on. Speaking about her new co-host Anna Haugh, she said: “I get on with John very well. And during that time, he was just incredibly supportive. But look, then I got Anna. I’m amazingly lucky” [citation:8].
John Torode’s Wife: Lisa Faulkner
Throughout the controversy, Torode has leaned heavily on his wife, actress Lisa Faulkner. The couple met on Celebrity MasterChef in 2010 and married in 2019 [citation:2][citation:6].
In his Substack post, he also paid tribute to her: “My Rock, my best friend, my love, my wife, a Wonder Woman. Nothing else needs to be said” [citation:2][citation:6]. Faulkner has remained publicly supportive of her husband throughout the ordeal.
Where Is John Torode Now in 2026?
Since his sacking from MasterChef, Torode has largely retreated from public view. He has not been announced for any new television projects. His final MasterChef appearances were the 2025 Christmas specials, which were pre-recorded before his dismissal [citation:10].
In a recent social media post, he made clear his intention to move forward. “The best decision I ever made? To be quiet and move on. I have nothing to prove. I’m not here to convince anyone to love me or that I’m a great person” [citation:9].
He wrote elsewhere: “I’m not fixing what I didn’t break, and I’m not fighting for anyone to see my worth… As for me? I’m moving forward” [citation:9].
The Investigation That Brought Down MasterChef
The Lewis Silkin investigation was originally launched to look into allegations against Gregg Wallace. Wallace, 61, had 45 out of 83 allegations upheld against him [citation:1]. These included inappropriate jokes, sexually explicit comments, and culturally insensitive remarks [citation:1].
Wallace has denied the claims and condemned the BBC’s handling of the situation. But like Torode, he was let go from the show after 21 years [citation:3].
The report also substantiated complaints against two other individuals, one of whom was Torode [citation:1]. The BBC stated that the allegation involved “an extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace” [citation:5][citation:6].
Who Replaced John Torode on MasterChef?
Grace Dent, 52, now co-hosts MasterChef alongside Irish chef Anna Haugh, 45 [citation:2][citation:8]. Dent previously appeared as a contestant on MasterChef: Battle of the Critics in 2023 and judged Celebrity MasterChef with Torode in 2025 [citation:3].
Dent told Radio Times at her appointment: “I’m over the moon about presenting the new series. I was utterly surprised to be asked. For me, this was taking on the mantle of a show that I’ve watched religiously from the moment it began in 1990” [citation:2].
Why John Torode Is Still Trending in 2026
John Torode continues to capture public attention for several reasons. The racism allegation and subsequent sacking from MasterChef shocked fans who had watched him for 20 years. His emotional tribute to Grace Dent, including the cryptic “cult” comment, generated headlines. His wife Lisa Faulkner’s unwavering support has also drawn interest. And the ongoing success of MasterChef under its new hosts keeps the comparison alive in viewers’ minds.
From MasterChef champion to controversial axing, John Torode’s fall from grace has been swift and painful. Whether he will ever return to television remains uncertain. For now, he has chosen silence and moving forward.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why was John Torode sacked from MasterChef?
He was sacked after an independent investigation upheld a complaint that he used “an extremely offensive racist term” in the workplace in 2018 [citation:1][citation:5][citation:6].
Did John Torode admit to the allegation?
No. He said he has “absolutely no recollection” of the incident and does not believe it happened [citation:1].
What did John Torode say about Grace Dent?
He called her a “strong extraordinary woman” who stands up for what she believes in and praised her “unfailing” support [citation:2][citation:6].
Who is John Torode married to?
He is married to actress Lisa Faulkner. They met on Celebrity MasterChef in 2010 and married in 2019 [citation:2][citation:6].
Is John Torode still working in TV?
He has not announced any new television projects since being sacked from MasterChef in July 2025. He has said he is “moving forward” and staying quiet [citation:9].
Who replaced John Torode on MasterChef?
Grace Dent now co-hosts MasterChef alongside Irish chef Anna Haugh [citation:2][citation:8].
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