Furious Lorraine Kelly Slams ‘Toxic and Nasty’ TV Industry in Fiery Rant Over Gregg Wallace Scandal
Lorraine Kelly has delivered a passionate rant about the “toxic and nasty” TV industry, addressing the recent Gregg Wallace scandal and calling out the abuse of power behind the scenes. With over 40 years in the television business, the Scottish TV presenter didn’t hold back as she criticized the culture within the industry.
During a candid interview with The Mirror, Lorraine, 65, spoke out about the negative environment that has been highlighted by the allegations against Wallace, the former MasterChef host. “There are toxic people in telly,” Lorraine remarked, adding, “We’re going through it at the moment.”
The presenter was especially critical of the “abuse of power” within the industry, as well as those who “enable” harmful behavior. She explained that those who allow others to act inappropriately behind the scenes also share responsibility for the negative culture. “It’s horrible and it’s toxic and nasty,” she declared. “I’ve got no time for people who abuse their power.”
Lorraine’s comments came after Wallace’s sudden departure from MasterChef in November, following multiple complaints from colleagues. Wallace, who also hosted various spin-off shows, faced allegations of making sexual remarks to at least 13 colleagues, including BBC anchor Kirsty Wark.
Wallace has denied all the accusations, and in a video statement, he controversially remarked that the women making the complaints were “middle class and of a certain age.” Lorraine was quick to criticize this remark, saying: “It’s not a class thing at all, don’t play that card, just don’t play that card.”
She emphasized that making people feel uncomfortable is never acceptable, no matter the context. “It’s not 1972,” she said. “I do understand that a lot of people might say, ‘It wasn’t that bad really,’ well it was, and it was a lot. It wasn’t just one person.”
The allegations against Gregg Wallace sparked an independent investigation, which was launched after formal complaints were made directly to the BBC.
A spokesperson for the BBC stated, “In recent days there have been concerning allegations made via the media about the alleged conduct of Gregg Wallace, many of which relate to shows made for the BBC.” These investigations are ongoing, as the industry faces increased scrutiny over its treatment of women and the abuse of power by those in positions of authority.