MasterChef Edits Out Contestant Amid Host Scandals

Sarah Shafi, a contestant from Leeds, was edited out of the upcoming series of MasterChef after she called for the show's cancellation following misconduct allegations against former presenters Gregg Wallace and John Torode. Wallace was dismissed after an independent investigation upheld 45 complaints, including inappropriate sexual language and unwanted contact, while Torode was sacked after a substantiated complaint of racist language, which he denies. Despite Shafi's initial request to cancel the series, she eventually agreed to her removal after the BBC decided to proceed with the broadcast. The BBC and production company Banijay stated that most contestants supported airing the series, though some women who raised complaints criticized this decision. Shafi's removal highlights concerns about accountability and the handling of misconduct allegations. The new series is set to air from 6 August on BBC One.