Lorraine Kelly has boldly criticized the “toxic” environment within the TV industry, specifically calling out MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace’s alleged “appalling behaviour.” 

In an outspoken interview with The Mirror, the 65-year-old ITV host discussed the ongoing issues surrounding abuse of power within the entertainment world, 

expressing her concern over the allegations against Wallace and others.

Kelly, who has spent decades in the television industry, didn’t mince her words when she discussed the nature of the allegations, which have recently surfaced regarding Wallace. 

She said, “There are toxic people in telly. We’re going through that at the moment. 

The behaviour of Gregg Wallace and other people that we’ve seen, should it come about as all true, is appalling.” 

Kelly’s comments reflect a broader concern in the industry about inappropriate conduct and a power imbalance that often goes unchecked.

The allegations against Wallace, 60, first emerged in November 2024 when it was reported that the long-time MasterChef co-presenter had been accused of making sexual comments to staff and guests. These accusations have caused a significant uproar, with Wallace vehemently denying all claims. Despite his denial, the allegations have cast a shadow over his 20-year career on the show, and he stepped down from his presenting role in the wake of the controversy.

Kelly further emphasized the toxic nature of such behaviour, stating, “There’s an imbalance of power there, and it’s abused. They’re just not right, and it should never happen.” She didn’t stop there, questioning the complicity of those around the accused, asking, “But how dare the people around them allow and enable them to behave like that?” Kelly described the alleged actions as “horrible,” “toxic,” and “nasty,” stressing that she has “no time for people who abuse their power.”

Her remarks echo those made recently by Michelin-starred chef Tom Kerridge, who also condemned Wallace’s alleged actions, calling the accusations “horrific if true.” The widespread backlash surrounding Wallace intensified after his controversial comment in which he dismissed the allegations, claiming they were from “a handful of middle-class women of a certain age.” This comment was met with outrage, including criticism from high-profile figures like Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Wallace later apologized for any “offence that I caused,” but his statement did little to quell the anger of many, including Kelly. In fact, she had previously reacted strongly to his remarks, expressing her disbelief and stating that he needed to “shut up.” For Kelly, Wallace’s response only fueled the frustration, as it seemed to downplay the seriousness of the accusations.

The allegations against Wallace include claims from multiple women. One woman has accused him of inappropriately touching her bottom at an event, while another woman alleges that he pressed his crotch against her during filming. Additional accusations involve making inappropriate sexual jokes, requesting the phone numbers of female production staff, and even undressing in front of women working on his shows.

The production company behind MasterChef, Banijay UK, has since hired a “rigorous” law firm to conduct an external review into Wallace’s alleged misconduct. This review aims to address the complaints and provide clarity on the situation. Additionally, there have been calls for the BBC to launch its own investigation, particularly after it was revealed that complaints about Wallace’s behaviour had been brought to the broadcaster’s attention as early as 2017.

As the investigation unfolds, the TV industry continues to grapple with the broader issue of toxic behaviour and power dynamics that often go unchallenged. Lorraine Kelly’s candid comments serve as a powerful reminder of the need for accountability and a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, both on and off-screen. For Kelly, the focus is clear: anyone who abuses their power in the industry should be held accountable for their actions. The spotlight remains on Wallace as the allegations are further scrutinized, and the conversation around toxic behaviour in television grows louder.

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