John Torode 'treated worse than a serial killer' rages Loose Women star after axe

MasterChef's longtime host John Torode was left raging after learning he'd been given the chop from the cooking show, by stumbling across the news on the BBC website. The presenter, 59, was said to be utterly devastated after the BBC andproduction company Banijay confirmed his dismissal over racist language allegations. It comes just days after the BBC cut all ties with his co-host Gregg Wallace after 45 misconduct claims against him were upheld.

The BBC said in a statement: "John Torode has identified himself as having an upheld allegation of using racist language. This allegation, which involves an extremely offensive racist term being used in the workplace, was investigated and substantiated by the independent investigation led by law firm Lewis Silkin.

"John Torode denies the allegation. We will not tolerate racist language of any kind and, as we have already said, we told Banijay UK, the makers of MasterChef, that action must be taken. John Torode's contract will not be renewed."

Sources claimed the Australian chef's agent was given just 11 minutes' notice before the bombshell announcement went public.

Celebrities are now showing their support for John, with former Loose Women presenter Jane Moore saying in her latest column for The Sun: "What the hell? Even serial killers get to see the evidence against them and put up a defence in court.

"But in the world of corporate HR, it seems that a Caesar-like thumbs up or down is delivered on someone's reputation and career without the chance to mount a robust challenge."

Taking to Instagram, a defiant John posted: "Although I haven't heard from anyone at the BBC or Banijay - I am seeing and reading that I've been 'sacked' from MasterChef and I repeat that I have no recollection of what I'm accused of. I have loved every minute working on MasterChef, but it's time to pass the cutlery to someone else."

Meanwhile, McFly's Danny Jones liked John's Instagram post, which addressed his shock at being sacked from the show. ITV star Amanda Holden also liked John's statement to his followers.