Gregg Wallace is set to step away from MasterChef while an investigation is conducted into historical misconduct allegations.
The star, who has co-judged the show since 2005 alongside spin-offs Celebrity MasterChef and MasterChef: The Professionals, is subject to complaints from multiple individuals, according to production company Banijay UK.
In a statement, they said: "This week the BBC received complaints from individuals in relation to historical allegations of misconduct while working with presenter Gregg Wallace on one of our shows.
"Whilst these complainants have not raised the allegations directly with our show producers or parent company Banijay UK, we feel that it is appropriate to conduct an immediate, external review to fully and impartially investigate."
BBC News quotes lawyers for Wallace as saying that any suggestions he engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature are entirely false.
Banijay has also confirmed that while the review is underway, Wallace "will be stepping away from his role on MasterChef" and "is committed to fully co-operating throughout the process".
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"Banijay UK's duty of care to staff is always a priority and our expectations regarding behaviour are made clear to both cast and crew on all productions, with multiple ways of raising concerns, including anonymously, clearly promoted on set," they continued.
"Whilst these are historical allegations, incidences brought to our attention where these expectations are not met, are thoroughly investigated and addressed appropriately," Banijay added, also confirming people can contact them in confidence.
Broadcaster Kirsty Wark, who was a Celebrity MasterChef contestant in 2011, has alleged to BBC News that Wallace used "sexualised language in front of a number of people" on two occasions, adding: "I think people were uncomfortable, and it's something that I really didn't expect to happen."
The BBC has also issued a statement, saying it takes "any issues that are raised with us seriously" and "have robust processes in place to deal with them".
"We are always clear that any behaviour which falls below the standards expected by the BBC will not be tolerated," they added.
"Where an individual is contracted directly by an external production company we share any complaints or concerns with that company and we will always support them when addressing them."
It is also being reported by PA that pre-recorded episodes of MasterChef: The Professionals featuring Wallace will still broadcast, including one this evening (November 28).
Digital Spy has reached out to Wallace's representatives for comment.
Sam is a freelance reporter and sub-editor who has a particular interest in movies, TV and music. After completing a journalism Masters at City University, London, Sam joined Digital Spy as a reporter, and has also freelanced for publications such as NME and Screen International. Sam, who also has a degree in Film, can wax lyrical about everything from Lord of the Rings to Love Is Blind, and is equally in his element crossing every 't' and dotting every 'i' as a sub-editor.
