Shannon Kyle, the ghostwriter of Gregg Wallace’s 2012 autobiography Life on a Plate, has accused the MasterChef presenter of sexual harassment.
In an interview with BBC Newsnight, Kyle alleged that Wallace exhibited predatory behavior, including opening the door to her wearing only a towel, which he later dropped, making inappropriate comments, and touching her inappropriately during their professional interactions.
Kyle, who was 35 at the time, described several incidents, including Wallace sharing explicit details of his sex life, making obscene suggestions during meals, and touching her thigh while she was seated in the passenger seat of his car.
She also alleged that he groped her bottom in a hotel car park after an event.
According to Kyle, Wallace’s behavior caused significant discomfort and left her feeling vulnerable, especially as she had signed a non-disclosure agreement before beginning work on the memoir.
Wallace, through his lawyers, has denied all allegations of sexual misconduct, describing Kyle’s claims as unfounded.
Representatives have also refuted any suggestion of harassing behavior.
These accusations come amid broader scrutiny of Wallace’s conduct.
Last week, Banijay UK, the production company behind MasterChef, announced that Wallace would step away from the show following historical allegations of misconduct.
A BBC investigation reported claims from 13 individuals regarding inappropriate comments made by Wallace, prompting Banijay to launch an external review.
Other women have since come forward with similar allegations.
Kyle, now 47, explained that she decided to speak out to expose what she considers Wallace’s “revolting misogyny” and to challenge the minimization of his actions as mere humor.
While the BBC has stated that Wallace is not their employee, they have pledged to address workplace culture concerns. Banijay UK has committed to a rigorous investigation into the claims.
MasterChef Christmas specials have been pulled in response to the allegations, and Wallace’s co-host John Torode expressed his distress over the situation, calling the claims “truly upsetting.”
Both the BBC and Banijay UK have expressed support for those who have come forward, emphasizing the importance of a thorough and impartial investigation.
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