BBC MasterChef 'replacement' unveiled hours after John Torode axe

Three top chefs are in the "running" to replace Gregg Wallace and John Torode on BBC MasterChef hours after the Australian chef was axed from the long-running show. On Tuesday (July 15), the BBC announced the 59-year-old broadcaster was stepping back from the show after a historic accusation of racism surfaced.

Hours later, the dad-of-four, took to Instagram to address the news to his loyal legion of fans online. He wrote: "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. The enquiry could not even state the date or year of what I am meant to have said something wrong.

"I'd hoped that I'd have some say in my exit from a show I've worked on since its relaunch in 2005, but events in the last few days seem to have prevented that.

"Over the past few months, I have been considering my life and the shape of it now and in the future." John concluded his statement by wishing the best of luck onto his new predecessor.

He went on: "For whoever takes over, love it as I have. I will watch fondly from afar as I now focus on the many other exciting projects that I have been working towards. Thank you for the many years of MasterChef."

Now, the top three names who could replace the two chefs have been revealed by whataretheodds.co.uk. According to the figures, Great British Menu host Andi Oliver is the favourite to take over the show with 5/2 odds.

Known for her vibrant energy and authority on the Great British Menu, Oliver's blend of warmth and culinary credibility has made her a top choice among fans and bookmakers alike. She would also make history as the first black woman to host the show.

Hot on her heels is chef Tom Kerridge boasting odds at 3/1, whose accessible cooking style and likeable media persona have earned him a devoted following.

With multiple restaurants, several BBC series, and a reputation for combining fine dining with everyday appeal, Kerridge is seen as a strong fit for MasterChef's evolving audience. Another rising star in the culinary world is TikTok sensation Poppy O'Toole who received 4/1 odds.

Odds analyst at whataretheodds.co.uk, Dave James, told Express.co.uk: "Andi Oliver remains the market leader, but Tom Kerridge is attracting a lot of support. His profile is huge and he's one of the most trusted names in British food. This could come down to what direction the BBC wants - prestige, relatability, or a bit of both.

"Poppy O'Toole might be seen as an outsider in this market, but she's got momentum on her side. Her digital reach and appeal to younger audiences could make her an inspired, modern choice if the BBC is looking to shake things up."

followed by Angela Hartnett at 5/1 and Nadiya Hussain at 6/1. Further down the list are TV staples like James Martin, Grace Dent, and Nigella Lawson, along with Marcus Waring and Lisa Faulkner.

Torode began presenting MasterChef alongside Wallace back in 2005. On Monday (July 14), Torode confirmed he was the subject of an allegation of using racist language which was upheld as part of a review carried out by law firm Lewis Silkin into the alleged behaviour of his co-host.