MasterChef is reportedly looking to shake up its lineup with a new host, and TV chef Matt Tebbutt is said to be the top contender to take over from Gregg Wallace. 

The Saturday Kitchen presenter is allegedly in advanced discussions with the show’s producers, 

with speculation that he may also take on hosting duties for MasterChef: The Professionals.

Gregg Wallace’s Departure and Allegations

Gregg Wallace’s exit from MasterChef has come amid ongoing investigations into allegations of misconduct. 

The longtime host, known for his passionate and energetic presence on the show, stepped down as TV executives launched a probe into claims made against him. 

While Wallace initially defended himself against the allegations, he later issued a public apology for some of his comments and stated that he needed to take a step back while the investigation continued.

The nature of the allegations has not been fully disclosed, but they have been serious enough for Wallace to be removed from his long-standing role. His departure left a significant gap in the MasterChef hosting team, leading producers to search for a suitable replacement.

Matt Tebbutt as the New Face of MasterChef?

With Wallace no longer at the helm, attention has turned to who will step in as the new co-host alongside John Torode. Matt Tebbutt, a familiar face to food lovers as the host of BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, has emerged as the frontrunner. Insiders claim that Tebbutt’s engaging style and strong on-screen presence have impressed both the BBC and the production company behind MasterChef, Banijay.

A source shared that Tebbutt has successfully taken ownership of Saturday Kitchen and made the show his own. They suggested that TV executives are hoping he can bring the same magic to MasterChef and help the series maintain its popularity despite the recent controversies.

The discussions are reportedly at an advanced stage, but nothing has been officially confirmed. The outcome of the investigation into Wallace’s behavior may still play a role in the final decision.

Grace Dent’s Temporary Stint as Host

In the wake of Wallace’s departure, food critic Grace Dent was brought in as a temporary co-host alongside John Torode. She quickly made an impression, joking that she was “drunk on power” when she first took on the role.

Speaking about her experience on This Morning, Dent expressed her excitement about being involved in one of Britain’s most beloved cooking competitions. She also humorously mentioned that she could no longer shop for groceries without people scrutinizing her choices, highlighting just how much attention comes with the high-profile role.

While Dent’s tenure has been well received, it remains unclear whether she will continue as a permanent host or if Tebbutt will take over in the long term.

What This Means for MasterChef’s Future

MasterChef has been a staple of British television for years, with viewers tuning in to watch amateur cooks battle it out in the kitchen under the guidance of its experienced judges and presenters. The departure of a long-standing host like Wallace marks a major shift for the series, and the producers will need to ensure a smooth transition to maintain audience engagement.

Tebbutt’s potential appointment suggests that the BBC is looking for a safe pair of hands—someone with extensive culinary and television experience who can bring authority and warmth to the show. As a presenter who has already proven his ability to engage audiences, Tebbutt could be the right choice to help MasterChef navigate this period of change.

Final Decision Still Pending

While reports indicate that Tebbutt is close to securing the role, no official statement has been made by the BBC or the production company. The final decision may depend on how the situation with Wallace unfolds and whether the BBC sees Tebbutt as the long-term answer for the show’s future.

For now, MasterChef fans will have to wait for confirmation on who will permanently fill Wallace’s shoes. Whether it’s Matt Tebbutt, Grace Dent, or another unexpected contender, the show will need a strong and charismatic host to continue its legacy as one of the UK’s most popular cooking competitions

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