The future of the season had been in doubt after Wallace and Torode were both fired from the show following a report commissioned by MasterChef producer Banijay.Today, the BBC said that “after careful consideration and consultation with the contestants” it will air MasterChef Season 21 on both BBC One linear and BBC iPlayer.“This has not been an easy decision in the circumstances and we appreciate not everyone will agree with it,” said a BBC spokesperson, appearing to anticipate backlash. “In showing the series, which was filmed last year, it in no way diminishes our view of the seriousness of the upheld findings against both presenters. We have been very clear on the standards of behaviour that we expect of those who work at the BBC or on shows made for the BBC.”The spokesperson said the show will launch August 6. No decision has been made on the latest celebrity version, which is also in the can, and on the Christmas special, both of which feature the presenters as well.Wallace’s position became “untenable” following a report that substantiated 45 allegations made against him after a BBC News expose into his behavior across a lengthy period on the show. During the research phase of that report, allegations were also made against Torode, one of which of racial language was substantiated by the independent law firm conducting the review. Media reports later alleged that Torode had used the n-word. Wallace has apologized for distress caused but said “none of the serious allegations against me were upheld.” Torode has apologized but says he can’t recall the incident and “I do not believe that it happened.”Almost immediately after the release of the report into Wallace, question marks were raised over whether the new series would air. Our deep dive last week revealed that the BBC was leaning towards showing the series on both linear and iPlayer. At the BBC’s annual report press briefing, Director General Tim Davie said his “overwhelming concern” was for the amateur chefs who “gave their heart and soul” to the show. Our sources had questioned why Davie would call out the chefs so specifically if he wasn’t in favor of the season airing.The spokesman said today: “MasterChef is an amazing competition which is life-changing for the amateur chefs taking part. The focus of it has always been their skill and their journey.”Next up will be the decision over who replaces the pair. Grace Dent, who regularly guests presents on the show, appears a frontrunner, while others who have been tipped include Alison Hammond, Matt Tebbutt and Poppy O’Toole.MasterChef is contracted to run on the BBC until 2028 and is filmed in Birmingham.Last week, Davie said the show is “bigger than individuals” and can “survive and prosper” into the future.
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