Silkin report | Gregg Wallace investigation reveals historic HR failings & safeguarding gaps

A comprehensive investigation into the behaviour of long-time MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace has substantiated 45 allegations of inappropriate conduct, prompting the BBC and Banijay UK to confirm that Wallace will not return to the programme.

The findings, released this week by law firm Lewis Silkin, paint a troubling picture of workplace culture on one of the BBC’s flagship programmes, highlighting systemic underreporting, poor handling of complaints, and long-standing gaps in HR protections, particularly for freelance staff.

Here, we explore some of the major findings of the probe…

Investigation commissioned after public allegations

The inquiry was launched in December 2024 after allegations about Wallace's conduct were reported by BBC News, The Telegraph, and other outlets. Banijay UK, which produces MasterChef on behalf of the BBC, commissioned Lewis Silkin to carry out an independent investigation into Wallace’s behaviour and wider workplace culture.