Former MasterChef presenter John Torode has spoken out for the first time after BBC director-general Tim Davie announced his departure from the corporation after two decades.
The 60-year-old chef posted a reflective message on Instagram Stories on Sunday, opening up on his current stance on what has happened with his career.
He declared he has “nothing to prove” and stated he won’t “convince anyone to love me or that I’m a great person.”
“The best decision I ever made? To be quiet and move on,” Mr Torode wrote in the social media post.
“I’m not fixing what I didn’t break, and I’m not fighting for anyone to see my worth.
“Whatever you do is on you – and that’s your journey, not mine. As for me? I’m moving forward.”
The timing of Mr Torode’s statement coincided with Mr Davie’s resignation announcement, marking a turbulent period for the broadcaster.
The Australian-born television personality was removed from his role on the BBC cooking programme in July after allegations emerged that he had used “extremely offensive racist language” during a 2018 incident.
John Torode and Gregg Wallace were both sacked from their roles on MasterChef
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BBCMr Torode maintains he has “no recollection” of making such remarks.
The chef discovered his dismissal through the BBC News website, according to his own account, after initially continuing to present the programme with new co-host Grace Dent.
His departure followed that of long-time presenting partner Gregg Wallace.
Mr Wallace left the show in November 2024 before being formally dropped by the BBC in July this year.
An investigation into his behaviour substantiated 45 complaints against him, encompassing inappropriate sexual remarks and instances of unwanted physical contact.
Mr Davie’s exit follows mounting pressure over editorial standards at the corporation, with concerns raised about the manipulation of footage from a Donald Trump address on 6 January 2021 in a Panorama programme.
His four-year leadership witnessed numerous controversies that damaged the BBC’s reputation.
The corporation faced significant challenges under his watch, including the criminal prosecution of veteran newsreader Huw Edwards for possessing indecent images of children.
The broadcaster also attracted criticism for airing a Glastonbury performance by Bob Vylan, during which the lead vocalist chanted “Death to the IDF”.
The dismissals of both MasterChef presenters added to the succession of scandals that plagued Mr Davie’s tenure, contributing to questions about management oversight and institutional culture at the public service broadcaster.
Mr Torode’s spouse, actress Lisa Faulkner, offered her perspective on the situation, telling the Daily Mail “MasterChef will not be the same without John. But he’s doing OK.”
John Torode posted a statement on Instagram
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The chef himself had previously commented: “Life goes on! I’ve had a lot of support and I’m very grateful.”
Despite the upheaval, the BBC intends to produce two Celebrity MasterChef Christmas editions featuring Grace Dent and Irish chef Anna Haugh as presenters.
Notably, two festive episodes recorded last year remain unbroadcast.