The BBC has solidified the future of its popular behind-the-scenes series, Inside The Factory, confirming presenter Paddy McGuinness as the permanent replacement for departed host Greg Wallace.
A New Era for the Factory Floor
According to reports from TV Zone, McGuinness, 52, who first stepped into the role in late 2024, has now cemented his position as the new co-host alongside Cherry Healey, 45. The move comes after the exit of former presenter Greg Wallace, who left the show following a series of allegations concerning his conduct on the set of MasterChef.
Production for the next full series is scheduled to commence in early 2026. However, fans will not have to wait that long for their next fix, as a brand new season of the programme is already set to premiere in January. The show's updated synopsis promises that "Paddy McGuinness and Cherry Healey hit factory floors across Britain for a snoop around their supersized production lines."
The Circumstances of Wallace's Departure
Greg Wallace's nine-year tenure on Inside The Factory, which began with the show's launch in 2015, ended amid controversy. An investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour, including claims of sexualised jokes and unwanted physical contact towards women, found 45 out of 83 claims to be substantiated.
Wallace issued an apology, stating he was "deeply sorry for any distress" caused. He later faced further criticism for remarks suggesting the accusers were "middle-class women of a certain age," a comment for which he subsequently apologised, saying he was not in a "good head space" when he made it.
In a television interview, Wallace denied any wrongdoing regarding the allegations, calling them inaccurate. He cited a desire to focus on his family, particularly his young son who has learning difficulties, as a key reason for his departure from the series.
What Viewers Can Expect Next
The programme continues its mission to unveil the secrets of mass production, with past episodes featuring the creation of iconic British products like sausage rolls, Jaffa Cakes, and mattresses. An upcoming Christmas special will delve into the production of gingerbread.
With the hosting lineup now firmly established, the BBC has secured the future of this insightful series. Inside The Factory remains available to stream on BBC iPlayer, allowing audiences to revisit past explorations of the nation's industrial heartland while awaiting the new episodes hosted by McGuinness and Healey.
