Former MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace is reportedly contemplating a significant life change, with plans to leave the UK and relocate to Italy with his family. This comes in the wake of his dismissal from the popular BBC cooking show and an ongoing legal dispute with the broadcaster.
A New Start Amidst Career Turmoil
Sources close to the 61-year-old star indicate that Wallace is looking to turn his back on Britain and start afresh in Italy, the homeland of his wife, Anne-Marie, and her family. This potential move follows the collapse of his mainstream television career after the BBC terminated his contract on MasterChef in the aftermath of a damning independent report.
The report, conducted by law firm Lewis Silkin, upheld 45 out of 83 allegations made against Wallace concerning his conduct on set. The substantiated complaints included instances of inappropriate sexual language and humour, one allegation of unwelcome physical contact, and three claims of him being in a state of undress.
Legal Action and Autism Defence
Wallace has since launched legal proceedings against the BBC, filing a claim at the High Court for up to £10,000 in damages for alleged distress and harassment. He has stated that his legal team believes he is the victim of a "terrible injustice," arguing the investigation cleared him of the most serious accusations like groping or flashing.
Furthermore, the presenter has suggested he may pursue a second legal action relating to his recent autism diagnosis. Wallace, diagnosed at the beginning of last year, has claimed that the highly charged, hyped-up environment of a TV studio led to him "tripping up." However, this defence has drawn criticism from charities who warn it risks stigmatising the autistic community, with one stating autism is "not a free pass for bad behaviour."
Building a Life Abroad
Despite the professional setback, Wallace believes he can maintain a career through his online ventures, which afford him geographical flexibility. He currently runs an online health coaching service and sells personalised video messages on the platform Cameo.
He now lives in Kent with his wife Anne-Marie, their autistic son Sid, and his mother-in-law Rina. Wallace has long expressed a deep affection for Italy, having filmed there for his Channel 5 show Big Weekends and co-authored an Italian cookbook with his wife. In past interviews, he has called the country "very special" and even stated, "I am going to retire there."
His wife has previously urged him to leave the UK, especially during periods when his anxiety was high, questioning if the stress of his British career was "worth it." With his BBC role gone and a legal battle underway, a permanent move to Italy appears to be a serious consideration for the embattled television personality.
The BBC has stated it will not comment on ongoing legal proceedings. Wallace's co-host, John Torode, was also removed from MasterChef over separate allegations of using a racist term, which he denies.
