John Torode takes brutal swipe at new BBC MasterChef judge

Fans of the BBC are speculating whether former presenter John Torode, who was sacked earlier in the year, has delivered a pointed dig at MasterChef through a cryptic Instagram post. The popular cookery programme is set to welcome fresh hosts, with two new female judges confirmed after the dramatic departures of John and colleague Gregg Wallace, who both left amid controversy a few months back.

Sources suggest that both men remain furious about their dismissals, which followed the conclusions of a formal independent inquiry. A completely new atmosphere will greet audiences when the programme makes its comeback, as Grace Dent and Anna Haugh are tipped to replace the discredited former male hosts, according to reports. MasterChef enthusiasts will see the pair mentoring hopefuls in the kitchen and sampling their culinary creations upon the show's return, following Wallace and Torode's departures - both aged 60. Following the announcement of the changes, John sparked intrigue amongst his social media followers after sharing a screenshot featuring his September astrological forecast.

The message read: "The universe is saying to you today a fresh chapter is waiting to unfold in your life. The old is closing, and new opportunities are ready to emerge. Trust this rebirth, do not cling to doors that have already closed."

In what seemed to allude to his tenure on the popular programme, it continued: "Step forward with faith and excitement. The future is brighter than anything you've left behind."

Writing in the caption, the celebrity chef added: "So much to take from this! A new chapter and a wonderful world awaiting."

The iconic show he departs from is also embarking on a new era. An insider revealed to the press: "It's really exciting that two women are judging the show, especially as, historically, it's been dominated by men, but coming to the decision hasn't been easy. Grace and Anna have brilliant chemistry. They know it's a big responsibility and can't wait to deliver for the fans."

It has been a tumultuous year for the hit series - which witnessed the dramatic departure of both its stars.

Wallace found himself in hot water last November when he was accused of misconduct on the set of the BBC show. Following an investigation, the Corporation concluded that Wallace's behaviour "falls below the values of the BBC" and confirmed that it has "no plans to work with him in the future."

Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy expressed her shock at the time, describing the allegations against Wallace as "horrendous and appalling". She added: "This case highlights a wider issue and much more must be done to ensure that everyone working in the creative industries is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect."

Months later, Torode was confronted with allegations of using racist language. His contract was not renewed following an investigation by the BBC and Masterchef production company Banijay.

The Australian-British host expressed regret for his behaviour - and issued a statement following the announcement of the allegations. He stated: "For the sake of transparency, I confirm that I am the individual who is alleged to have used racial language on one occasion."

Delving into the incident, believed to have occurred in 2018 or 2019, he admitted: "[The] person I was speaking with did not believe that it was intended in a malicious way and that I apologised immediately afterwards".

He went on to say: "I have absolutely no recollection of any of this, and I do not believe that it happened. However, I want to be clear that I've always had the view that any racial language is wholly unacceptable in any environment. I'm shocked and saddened by the allegation as I would never wish to cause anyone any offence."