Ex-MasterChef host Gregg Wallace drops legal claim against BBC

Former MasterChef host Gregg Wallace has dropped his High Court claim against the BBC and won't be receiving any damages, the corporation has said.  

Mr Wallace was suing the broadcaster and its subsidiary BBC Studios Distribution Limited for up to £10,000 in damages, alleging the BBC failed to disclose his personal data, which caused him "distress and harassment".

The BBC was defending the claim and denied Mr Wallace had "suffered any distress or harassment", stating in court documents he was not "entitled to any damages".

The former MasterChef presenter was sacked last July following an investigation into misconduct allegations.

A BBC spokesperson confirmed on Friday that Mr Wallace had abandoned the claim.

They said: "Shortly in advance of a hearing, due February 16, Mr Wallace discontinued his claim.

"He is not receiving any payment in costs or damages from either BBC or BBC Studios."

He began co-presenting MasterChef in 2005, but it was announced in November 2024 that he would step away from his role while the misconduct allegations were investigated.

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A review by law firm Lewis Silkin later upheld 45 of the 83 allegations against him, including one of "unwelcome physical contact".

Mr Wallace issued an apology, saying he was "deeply sorry for any distress caused" and that he "never set out to harm or humiliate".

Mr Wallace has been approached for comment.

(c) Sky News 2026: Ex-MasterChef host Gregg Wallace drops legal claim against BBC