Strictly star 'to be announced as Gregg Wallace's MasterChef replacement in days'

Strictly Come Dancing's Grace Dent is rumoured to be announced as the new face of MasterChef, replacing Gregg Wallace. The former presenter and judge has stepped down from the popular BBC cookery show following allegations made by several women.

In response to these claims, Banijay UK, the production company behind the show, announced an external review into historical allegations of misconduct. Despite denying any wrongdoing and his lawyers stating "it is entirely false that he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature", Gregg is set to be replaced.

Food critic Grace, 51, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having written about food for many years and regularly appearing on MasterChef as a critic. She has also ventured into mainstream TV with appearances on Strictly and I'm A Celebrity.

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According to The Sun, the BBC plans to announce Grace as Gregg's replacement by the end of the week, joining forces with his former co-host John Torode for a fresh chapter of MasterChef. An insider told the paper: "Grace is the perfect choice to replace Gregg on Masterchef.

"She's knowledgeable about food and opinionated, plus it's great to have a woman as a judge on the show. It will shake things up and give the series the boost it needs after such an upsetting and uncertain time."

They noted that MasterChef chiefs see her as a "safe pair of hands" who, alongside John, can guide the show to "steadier waters".

A BBC spokesperson has chosen not to comment.

Gregg he found the reports about him 'truly upsetting, releasing a statement apologising and stating: "The thought of anyone who has appeared on our show not having a brilliant experience is awful to hear, and I have found the recent press reports truly upsetting. But as I hope everyone appreciates there is an investigation underway, which I fully support, so I cannot make any further comment at this stage... I hope that you all understand and respect my silence on the matter moving forward."