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ITV stand by under fire John Torode following his BBC axing – as the broadcaster confirms it will continue to air John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen

BBG News

Despite the controversy surrounding John Torode after his dismissal from MasterChef on BBC due to a racism allegation, ITV continues to support him and has not changed its position regarding him.

According to reports from ITV insiders, John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen‘s 10th series will air as planned this coming Saturday.

In 2019, the well-adored cooking program debuted, starring John, age 59, and his spouse, Lisa Faulkner, also 59. They share their preferred dishes on this show.

According to our ITV insider, there are no adjustments to the current schedule. As planned, John and Lisa’s Weekends will still be aired, and you can expect it on your screens for the upcoming three weeks.

The third episode from the tenth season of the TV program will air on ITV1 at 11:40 in the morning this coming Saturday.

Additionally, it’s been planned that the broadcaster will invite John back towards the end of the year, featuring him alongside Lisa in a special holiday show titled “John & Lisa’s Christmas Kitchen” in December.

The Australian chef was unexpectedly dismissed from MasterChef following a refusal by the BBC’s director-general to support him concerning a racial accusation, just hours prior.

The company announced that the host’s agreement wouldn’t be extended following the discovery that he had employed a highly disrespectful racial slur, during socializing after taping the program.

The report on Gregg Wallace’s inappropriate behavior disclosed a grievance leveled against John.

Gregg, 60, was sacked after dozens of complaints against him were upheld.

On Monday, John publicly acknowledged that he was the individual mentioned anonymously in the report who faced allegations of employing racially offensive language.

Instead, the presenter stated that he couldn’t remember the incident at all and doubts whether it actually occurred.

Yesterday, the BBC acknowledged that an investigation led by the law firm Lewis Silkin found credible evidence supporting a claim of racial discrimination, where a highly offensive racial slur was reportedly used within their workplace.

‘The BBC takes this upheld finding extremely seriously.

Let me rephrase that for you in a more conversational style: ‘We firmly stand against any form of racist language and have made it clear to Banijay UK, the creators of MasterChef, that appropriate action needs to be taken. Regrettably, John Torode’s contract with MasterChef will not be renewed.’

Prior to the announcement, BBC Director General Tim Davie declined to support John and stated that he anticipated some form of response or action regarding the accusation.

He spoke during the time when BBC unveiled its yearly report, an event that, unfortunately, has been marred by scandals for two consecutive years. Last year’s report was published amidst the aftermath of Huw Edwards, a news presenter, admitting to possessing inappropriate images involving children.

When questioned about the Torode racism controversy, Tim Davie stated: ‘In essence, the BBC’s stance is straightforward – if an individual fails to meet our set values, it is expected that an independent company like Banijay would take necessary actions and then update us on their response.’

‘These are not BBC employees, but we absolutely expect action to be taken.’

Tim added: ‘I think a great programme that’s loved by audiences is much bigger than individuals.

The character could thrive and flourish, given the chance, but it’s crucial that we find a fitting environment within the context of the show’s cultural dynamics.

According to a trusted confidant of John, it was reported that he might have employed a racially insensitive phrase during post-filming gatherings over drinks. However, the witness asserted that John swiftly apologized upon realizing his mistake, feeling deeply ashamed, and clarified that he did not intend to use the term as an insult.

At the moment, no one voiced any complaints about the incident. However, it was raised during the investigation concerning Gregg. They mentioned it then.

On Monday, John stated that he couldn’t remember the event at all and felt both surprised and upset by the accusation. He further clarified, “I have no intention of hurting or disrespecting anyone.

In response to his termination, John, who is married to actress and previous Celebrity MasterChef contestant Lisa Faulkner, expressed his hope for a say in his departure from a show he’s been part of since its 2005 relaunch. However, recent events seem to have hindered that possibility.

He expressed that he enjoyed every single moment while working on the show, but now it’s “time for someone else to take over the job.

He mentioned that life is always shifting and evolving, and occasionally, our own happiness and contentment may be found somewhere other than where we currently are.

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2025-07-16 12:50

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