BBC presenter brushes over MasterChef drama ahead of final episode
Jacqui Joseph brushed over the recent drama as she welcomed the three Masterchef: The Professionals finalists to BBC Morning Live during Thursday's (December 12) episode.
The Homes Under The Hammer regular was on presenting duty alongside Gordon Smart and the pair chatted to Chiara Tomasoni, Dan Merriman and George Birtwell ahead of the final airing tonight.
Before the interview, Jacqui said "As you may have noticed there's been a lot of nose and headlines over the last few weeks but as the latest series reaches it's climax we're not focusing in any of that but on the competition itself."
It comes after MasterChef host Gregg Wallace stepped down from hosting duties while an investigation into allegations is underway, although he has denied all accusations.
READ MORE: Ainsley Harriott defends Gregg Wallace after working with him on MasterChef
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The BBC has cancelled plans for two MasterChef Christmas specials, but the regular schedule of MasterChef: The Professionals continued to air. Wallace's co-host John Torode described the claims as "truly upsetting" and a representative from the BBC expressed gratitude to those "who had the courage to speak out".
The investigation into Wallace comes from Banijay UK, due to their working relationship with him. The broadcaster stated: "He is not employed by the BBC. When issues have been raised with the BBC we have taken action, referring issues to the relevant production company and challenging his behaviour directly as has been widely reported." Reach PLC has contacted Wallace's representative for a comment.
Finalists Dan and George appeared live in the studio and Chiara called in via video link and the tiro opened up about the "intense" final. The last seven weeks have seen the three MasterChef: The Professionals finalists invest every ounce of blood, sweat and tears into the competition.
The finalists have just three hours to deliver three of the best courses they have ever produced. They will need to create plates of food that show progress, passion and a flawless palate.
All three have proven themselves skilful and driven with flair in their craft, so it will take something extraordinary to stand out from the pack. This is quite simply the biggest moment of their culinary careers. One wrong move, and the trophy might just slip through their fingers.
Morning Live airs weekdays on BBC One at 9.30pm and the grand final of MasterChef: The Professionals on iPlayer and BBC One from 9pm on December 12
