Andi Oliver, a potential successor to Gregg Wallace on MasterChef, has expressed her lack of surprise over the allegations against him, claiming “everyone” had heard rumours.
Gregg faces accusations of inappropriate behaviour and making sexual comments towards women he’s worked with over a 17-year period, claims he strongly denies.
His lawyers have said in a statement: “It is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”
Following the allegations, he has taken a step back from MasterChef and is cooperating in an ongoing investigation.
Commenting on the situation, Andi told The Guardian: “I’m not surprised by it.”
The Great British Menu star said she doesn’t know Gregg personally, but added: “There’s a certain culture that allows it to happen.
“Somebody should have nipped that s**t in the bud a long time ago. It’s not like nobody knew it was happening. I heard stuff. Everyone did.”
Andi Oliver ‘wasn’t surprised’ by the allegations
(Image: GETTY)
Andi also claimed: “And there are tons of others who go around behaving badly.”
The 61-year-old chef went on to say that real change is needed to see a difference in culture, as she slammed “fake outrage”.
She added: “Thousands of people shouting about Gregg Wallace on Twitter doesn’t interest me. What does is whether we remember this in six months, or will there be more fake shock and outrage when it happens all over again with the next person whose antics were an open secret?”.
In the same interview, Andi was quizzed about potentially joining John Torode as his new co-judge, following Gregg’s departure.
While the celebrity version has already found a replacement in Grace Dent, the amateur show’s judging spot remains vacant.
When asked about stepping in, Andi initially responded with a straightforward denial but then added: “I can’t talk about that. Everyone keeps asking.”
Meanwhile, Grace expressed her excitement for the upcoming celebrity version, saying she’s “so excited” and “can’t wait to meet the fresh celebrity faces for 2025”.
John has welcomed Grace with open arms, describing her as an “excellent guest and inspiring critic” with whom he’s enjoyed working with over the years.