BBC boss makes grim prediction of 'more things to come out' amid scandals

BBC chiefs have admitted they can't guarantee the corporation will be free of fresh misconduct scandals - warning "more things" may still emerge. Director General Tim Davie and Chair Samir Shah gave evidence to MPs on the Culture, Media and Sport Committee this week after the broadcaster was rocked by controversies, including allegations surrounding hit series MasterChef. When pressed if they could promise a crisis-free future for the BBC, Shah bluntly replied: "You will never fully eliminate human misbehaviour."

He pointed to an Independent review into workplace culture before stressing the issue becomes magnified at the corporation: "Because it's the BBC, if it's somebody famous, it'll become news." Davie echoed that message with his own bleak forecast: "We may see more things coming out." The pair insisted progress had been made since the review, saying the BBC is now handling complaints more effectively. They confirmed "very serious disciplinary actions, including dismissals," are being taken against those found guilty of wrongdoing, though they declined to give details.

Davie highlighted the high-profile departures of MasterChef judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace. Both denied wrongdoing, but an independent review substantiated claims of misconduct against them. They were removed from the series and replaced by Anna Haugh and Grace Dent, familiar faces from previous seasons.

The director general also addressed backlash over Torode's sacking, which followed an allegation he had used a racist slur. "Torode does not recall such language being used," he said, noting some accused the BBC of being "too tough."

Meanwhile, Wallace faced even more damaging claims. A report substantiated 45 allegations, including accusations of inappropriate sexual language and one incident of unwelcome physical contact. Wallace apologised for "any distress caused" but insisted the report had cleared him of the most serious claims.

Despite the controversy, the BBC went ahead with airing the latest MasterChef series. That decision sparked anger from some contestants, including Sarah Shafi, who told producers she did not want her series broadcast after the scandals.

Reports say she was edited out of the show, along with another unnamed contestant. Davie defended the move, calling it a "tough call" taken after research showed audiences supported broadcasting the programme.

The Director General also stressed that because many BBC shows are produced by external companies, freelancers would continue to have an "open door" to raise concerns while working under contract.

Following the explosive committee hearing, the BBC reiterated Shah's comments were about the general effectiveness of reforms, not about MasterChef specifically. The broadcaster declined to add further comment on Davie's remarks.

Strictly Come Dancing has also faced its own recent storm, with professional dancers accused of bullying and mistreating celebrity partners. Despite the headlines, the BBC's flagship competition is pressing ahead and returns to screens this weekend.