Former MasterChef Presenter Gregg Wallace Ends Legal Battle with BBC
Gregg Wallace, the former host of the popular cooking competition MasterChef, has officially discontinued his High Court claim against the British Broadcasting Corporation. The BBC confirmed on February 27, 2026, that Wallace will not receive any payment in costs or damages as a result of this decision.
Background of the Legal Dispute
Wallace, aged 61, had initiated legal proceedings against the BBC, seeking up to £10,000 in damages. He alleged that the broadcaster failed to disclose his personal data, which he claimed caused him significant distress and harassment. The lawsuit was part of a broader context following Wallace's dismissal from the BBC in July 2025, after an investigation upheld allegations of misconduct against him.
BBC's Response and Court Proceedings
In court documents, the BBC strongly denied that Wallace had suffered any distress or harassment as a result of their actions. The corporation stated that he was not entitled to any damages, emphasizing their position in the legal dispute. A preliminary court hearing was scheduled for February 16 but was cancelled shortly before it was due to take place. A BBC spokesperson clarified the situation, noting that Wallace discontinued his claim just before this hearing.
Details of the Misconduct Allegations
The misconduct allegations that led to Wallace's dismissal included several upheld complaints from last year. These involved three instances of being in a state of undress and one case of unwelcome physical contact. Wallace has publicly denied any serious misconduct, expressing deep regret for any distress caused and asserting that he never intended to harm or humiliate anyone. Metro has reached out to Wallace for further comment on the matter.
Implications and Future Developments
This case highlights ongoing issues within the broadcasting industry regarding data protection and workplace conduct. With Wallace receiving no financial compensation, the outcome may influence similar legal disputes in the future. As this is a breaking story, additional details are expected to emerge, potentially shedding more light on the broader implications for both Wallace and the BBC.
