Jeremy Clarkson speaks out as John Torode exits MasterChef amid allegation

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Jeremy Clarkson has expressed concern for TV chef John Torode, following confirmation that the MasterChef judge will not return to the BBC series. The 59-year-old, who co-hosted the programme alongside Gregg Wallace since 2005, was let go after an internal review by law firm Lewis Silkin, commissioned by production company Banijay UK. The review originally focused on Wallace but also identified a separate allegation against Torode involving the use of racist language.

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Clarkson, writing in The Sun, commented on the shift in BBC controversies and recalled his own 2015 departure from the broadcaster after an altercation during Top Gear. He remarked on the irony that his former show was long seen as the BBC’s troublemaker, despite now appearing relatively tame in light of recent events. “I am a bit worried about this John Torode chap,” he said, questioning the nature and handling of the allegation that led to Torode’s exit.

Reports suggest that Torode allegedly used the N-word twice during an after-work drinks gathering in 2018 while singing along to Kanye West’s Gold Digger. He reportedly repeated the word in conversation with a colleague, who did not take offence. According to The Sun, the complaint was made by someone who overheard the exchange. A staff member involved is said to have defended Torode, stating he apologised afterwards and used the word only as an example.

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Torode has said he has “no recollection of the incident” and was “shocked and saddened” by the allegation. He also claimed he learned of his dismissal through the press. While he confirmed that recently filmed episodes of Celebrity MasterChef and two Christmas specials would be his final appearances, the BBC has yet to confirm if these will be broadcast. Meanwhile, ITV announced it would continue airing John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen, the cooking show Torode co-hosts with his wife, actress Lisa Faulkner.

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