The broadcaster says that the series will be aired from 6 August, a decision it adds has been taken in order to give the contestants the recognition they deserve, although it admits that ‘not everyone will agree’ with its verdict.
It is yet to make a decision on the celebrity series and Christmas special of the programme, which were filmed earlier this year, and will confirm its plans at a later date.
A BBC spokesperson says: “After careful consideration and consultation with the contestants, we have decided to broadcast the amateur series of MasterChef on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 6 August. MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the amateur chefs taking part. The focus of it has always been their skill and their journey.”
“This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it. In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters.”
There had been speculation about whether the BBC would choose to broadcast the new series following the sacking of its two presenters Wallace and Torode over allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
There is also speculation as to who will be chosen to present the programme in their place, with Guardian restaurant critic Grace Dent, chef Anna Haugh, and former London Standard restaurant critic Jimi Famuwera among the favourites for the roles.
Last week it was announced that Torode had been sacked from MasterChef after an allegation of him using racist language was substantiated as part of a report investigating inappropriate behaviour by fellow presenter Wallace.
Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef UK, said that it had come to an agreement with the BBC not to renew Torode’s contract in light of the report, which was conducted by independent law firm Lewis Silkin.
The sacking follows that of Wallace ahead of the report’s publication that upheld 45 claims against the presenter that included multiple uses of sexual language and one of unwanted physical contact.
The BBC statement in full
"After careful consideration and consultation with the contestants, we have decided to broadcast the amateur series of MasterChef on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 6 August. MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the amateur chefs taking part. The focus of it has always been their skill and their journey.
“This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it. In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters. We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC.
“However, we believe that broadcasting this series is the right thing to do for these cooks who have given so much to the process. We want them to be properly recognised and give the audience the choice to watch the series.
“At this stage we have not taken a decision on the celebrity series and Christmas special, which was filmed earlier this year, and we will confirm our plans later in the year.
“Most importantly MasterChef is a brilliant, much-loved programme which is bigger than any one individual. There are many talented, dedicated and hard-working people who make the show what it is. It will continue to flourish on the BBC and we look forward to it returning stronger than ever in the future."
