Overview

• The BBC aired its pre-recorded 21st MasterChef series with last-minute edits to minimize Gregg Wallace and John Torode’s screen time following upheld misconduct findings.
• Producers stripped much of the hosts’ banter and removed contestant Sarah Shafi’s footage at her request to keep the focus on amateur chefs.
• Viewers on social media branded the broadcast “tone-deaf,” and the Bectu union warned that airing the episodes ignored the concerns of complainants.
• The Wednesday premiere on BBC One drew 1.96 million viewers, nearly one million fewer than last year’s opening, marking a steep ratings drop.
• Director-General Tim Davie has defended the choice as necessary to honour the cooks and said the BBC is reviewing how to handle future MasterChef specials.