ITV makes huge decision over John Torode show future after BBC MasterChef sacking amid ‘racial comment’ saga
ITV will continue broadcasting John Torode’s weekend cookery programme despite his dismissal from BBC’s MasterChef following an upheld allegation of racist language use.
The third episode of the 10th anniversary series of John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen is set to air on Saturday at 11.40am as scheduled, with no changes to the programming lineup.
Multiple sources at ITV confirmed to various outlets that the broadcaster sees no reason to alter its schedule.
“There is no change to the ITV schedule and John and Lisa’s Weekends will be broadcast as usual and will continue to air for the next three weeks,” an ITV source told the MailOnline.
The decision comes after Torode was sacked from his long-standing MasterChef role on Tuesday.
ITV sources have indicated the broadcaster will stand by the presenter, with one insider telling The Mirror: “I think we will keep going with the show. We don’t know the details of the BBC issue and have never had any trouble with him ourselves.”
The source added: “We obviously have our own complaints handling procedure and a code of conduct for talent at ITV. There have been no issues raised with John so the series is set to continue to air.”
Beyond the current series, ITV is believed to be planning to welcome Torode back later in the year for John & Lisa’s Christmas Kitchen in December.
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GB News has contacted ITV for comment on the source’s claims.
The cookery programme, which launched in 2019, features Torode and his wife Lisa Faulkner, 59, showcasing their favourite recipes.
The BBC announced Torode’s contract would not be renewed after law firm Lewis Silkin’s independent investigation substantiated that he had used “an extremely offensive racist term” during drinks after filming.
BBC Director General Tim Davie described the allegation as involving “a serious racist term which does not get to be acceptable in any way shape or form.”
“It’s really important we are taking this seriously,” Davie told BBC News on Tuesday afternoon. “We’ve drawn a line in the sand.”
Torode has strongly disputed the findings, stating: “I repeat that I have no recollection of what I’m accused of.
“The enquiry could not even state the date or year of when I am meant to have said something wrong.”
The presenter said he had “loved every minute” working on MasterChef but acknowledged it was “time to pass the cutlery to someone else.”
The allegations against Torode emerged during Lewis Silkin’s investigation into his MasterChef co-host Gregg Wallace, who was dismissed after 45 out of 83 complaints against him were upheld.
These included allegations of “unwanted physical contact”, “being in a state of undress”, bullying and inappropriate jokes.
According to sources, the incident involving Torode allegedly occurred in 2018, though no complaint was made at the time. A source close to Torode claimed he had apologised immediately and “was mortified”, insisting he “didn’t use the term as a slur”.
MasterChef production company Banijay UK confirmed they had discussed the matter with Torode and the BBC, stating they “are agreed that we will not renew his contract on MasterChef”.