BBC MasterChef winner makes feelings clear on Gregg Wallace amid misconduct saga after winning experience on show
MasterChef: The Professionals winner Dan Merriman, 29, has broken his silence on his experience with Gregg Wallace, 60, while he was a contestant on the flagship BBC cooking programme.
The champion chef, who recently triumphed in the prestigious cooking contest, shared his positive experiences with Wallace following allegations about the presenter’s conduct.
Merrimam has come out to defend judge Wallace amid the ongoing controversy, praising his “supportive” approach during the competition.
Throughout the show, Merriman impressed Wallace alongside fellow judges Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti with his innovative cooking and skilful techniques.
Speaking to The Times, the 29-year-old was unequivocal in his praise for Wallace, stating: “He’s a happy-go-lucky kind of bloke, very encouraging and very supportive.”
The champion chef emphasised the constructive nature of his interactions with Wallace during the competition.
“He gave me some great comments and feedback,” Merriman added, describing his experience with the veteran presenter as “great.”
Wallace stepped down from the role after production company Banijay UK launched an investigation into claims lodged by several women of inappropriate sexual behaviour across the host and judge’s 17-year TV career.
A number of accusations from both high-profile celebrity guests and staff were made against Wallace since the initial allegations became known.
The 60-year-old’s lawyers have previously strenuously denied any wrongdoing, saying: “It is entirely false that he (Wallace) engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”
Merriman firmly rejected suggestions that the controversy has diminished the show’s standing.
“At the end of the day, the programme is all about the contestants,” he told The Times.
“We’ve had a lot of support from the public, from social media, and I don’t feel like it’s been overshadowed. Nor should it be.”
Merriman emphasised that the situation “shouldn’t take away from the achievements of any one of the 32 chefs who took part.”
While Wallace and his lawyers have repeatedly stressed his innocence, the BBC presenter has reportedly “quietly conceded” has time at MasterChef is over.
In light of the 60-year-old’s stepping down, rumours over who will replace him at the helm of the popular cooking show have swirled.
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The Sun reports that the BBC is allegedly moving in the direction of a regular MasterChef guest judge and former I’m a Celebrity contestant, Grace Dent, to replace the embattled 60-year-old.
If chosen, the 51-year-old food critic will join John Torode as co-host – becoming the first female judge on the main show.
The BBC is expected to make the announcement next week that Dent will form a new presenting duo with Torode, 59.
The organisation declined to comment on the potential appointment when approached by GB News.