In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the culinary world and left fans reeling, John Torode, the beloved Australian-born chef and long-standing judge on BBC’s MasterChef, has announced the end of his illustrious tenure on the show with a gut-wrenching three-word declaration: “It’s all over!” The statement, delivered in a raw, emotional Instagram post amid swirling controversies, marks the close of an era for one of television’s most iconic cooking competitions. As tears streamed down the faces of loyal viewers worldwide, Torode’s wife, actress and fellow food enthusiast Lisa Faulkner, rushed to his side, offering unwavering support in what has become a poignant family affair. This isn’t just the end of a job—it’s the heartbreaking culmination of decades of passion, pressure, and public scrutiny.

At 59, Torode has been a fixture on British screens since 2005, when he first teamed up with co-host Gregg Wallace to revive MasterChef. Together, they transformed the program into a global phenomenon, blending high-stakes drama with mouthwatering cuisine. But behind the polished presentations and fiery kitchen critiques lay a man grappling with the toll of fame, allegations, and the relentless demands of the industry. This article delves deep into Torode’s journey—from his humble beginnings in Melbourne to the heights of celebrity chefdom—exploring the scandal that precipitated his exit, the emotional fallout, and the silver linings that may yet redefine his legacy. With exclusive insights from insiders, interviews, and a timeline of events, we uncover how one remark unraveled a career and how love and resilience are helping Torode rebuild.

From Melbourne Kitchens to British Stardom: The Rise of John Torode

John Douglas Torode’s story begins far from the glitzy studios of London. Born on July 23, 1965, in Melbourne, Australia, to a family of modest means, Torode discovered his love for food early. His mother, a single parent after his father’s death when John was just four, worked tirelessly as a cleaner, instilling in him a work ethic that would define his life. “Food was our way of connecting,” Torode once recalled in a 2010 interview with The Guardian. “Mum would make simple meals, but they were full of love. That’s what I chase in every dish.”

By age 16, Torode had left school to apprentice at a local restaurant, honing his skills in the brutal heat of professional kitchens. His big break came in the early 1990s when he moved to London, working under renowned chefs like Marco Pierre White at Quaglino’s and Harveys. “It was sink or swim,” he told The Telegraph in 2015. “I swam.” In 1996, he opened his first restaurant, Smiths of Smithfield, which quickly became a hotspot for London’s elite. Awards followed: an MBE for services to the food industry in 2000, and a string of successful ventures including Luxe and The Luxe Kitchen.

But it was television that catapulted Torode to household name status. In 2005, the BBC relaunched MasterChef with Torode and Wallace as judges. The format—amateur cooks battling it out in intense challenges—struck gold. Torode’s calm, authoritative demeanor contrasted perfectly with Wallace’s boisterous energy, creating a dynamic duo that drew millions of viewers. Over 20 seasons, the show spawned spin-offs like Celebrity MasterChef, MasterChef: The Professionals, and international versions. Torode’s signature phrases—”That’s cooked beautifully” or “Needs more seasoning”—became cultural staples, inspiring a new generation of home cooks.

Yet, success came at a cost. Torode’s first marriage to Jessica ended in 2011 after 12 years, strained by his grueling schedule. He found love again with Lisa Faulkner, whom he met when she competed on Celebrity MasterChef in 2010. Faulkner, known for roles in Holby City and Spooks, won the competition and Torode’s heart. They married in 2019, blending their families and co-authoring cookbooks like John & Lisa’s Kitchen. “She’s my rock,” Torode said in a 2022 Hello! magazine feature. Their partnership seemed unbreakable—until the storms of 2025 hit.

The Scandal That Shook the Foundations: Allegations and Investigations

The beginning of the end traced back to late 2024, when whispers of misconduct on the MasterChef set began circulating. Co-host Gregg Wallace faced multiple complaints of inappropriate behavior, prompting Banijay UK—the show’s production company—to launch an independent investigation by law firm Lewis Silkin. What started as a probe into Wallace ballooned into a broader review of workplace culture, uncovering allegations against others, including Torode.

In July 2025, the bombshell dropped. Reports emerged that Torode had used “an extremely offensive racist term” during after-work drinks in 2018 or 2019. According to details leaked to outlets like The Evening Standard, the incident occurred at a casual gathering following filming. Torode, allegedly singing along to Kanye West’s “Gold Digger,” repeated the N-word twice—once in the lyrics and again in conversation with a colleague. The complainant, who overheard the exchange, reported it years later amid the Wallace inquiry.

Torode vehemently denied intentional malice. In his Instagram statement on July 14, 2025, he wrote: “I have no recollection of this incident, but if it happened, I apologize unreservedly. Racial language is wholly unacceptable, and I am shocked and saddened.” He claimed to know only the “clean” radio version of the song and insisted any slip was inadvertent. Insiders told The Hollywood Reporter that the colleague involved didn’t take offense, but the allegation was upheld, leading the BBC to not renew his contract.

The fallout was swift and merciless. Social media erupted with hashtags like #CancelTorode and #MasterChefScandal. Critics accused the show of fostering a toxic environment, with former contestants sharing stories of high-pressure sets. Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy condemned the allegations as “horrendous and appalling,” calling for industry-wide reforms. Banijay’s report, released partially on July 18, upheld 45 complaints against Wallace (who stepped aside) and two standalone ones, including Torode’s.

For Torode, the timing couldn’t have been worse. He had just wrapped filming for Celebrity MasterChef and two Christmas specials, believing they would air as planned. But BBC executives, fearing backlash, debated shelving them. “It’s a nightmare,” a source told The Mirror. “John’s been a pillar of the show, but in today’s climate, zero tolerance is the rule.”

The Heartbreaking Statement: “It’s All Over!”

On July 20, 2025, Torode broke his silence in a deeply personal video posted to Instagram, viewed over 5 million times within hours. Seated in his home kitchen, looking visibly aged and emotional, he stared into the camera: “After 20 incredible years, it’s all over. My time on MasterChef has come to an end.” The three words—”It’s all over!”—hung in the air like a final judgment, evoking Kenneth Wolstenholme’s famous 1966 World Cup commentary but laced with sorrow instead of triumph.

Torode elaborated, his voice cracking: “This show has been my life. I’ve watched dreams come true, tasted triumphs and failures. But recent events have made it impossible to continue. I’m heartbroken, but I must accept responsibility for any hurt caused, even unintentionally.” He spoke of the toll on his mental health, admitting to sleepless nights and anxiety. “Fame amplifies everything,” he said. “One moment, you’re celebrated; the next, vilified.”

Fans flooded the comments with support. “You’ve inspired me to cook for my family—don’t let this define you!” wrote one. Celebrities like Jamie Oliver and Nigella Lawson chimed in: “Chin up, mate. The kitchen always welcomes you back,” Oliver posted. But detractors were vocal too, demanding accountability. The statement ignited debates on cancel culture, redemption, and the fine line between slip-ups and systemic issues.

Lisa Faulkner Rushes to Support: A Love Story Amid the Chaos

As the news broke, Lisa Faulkner was by her husband’s side, embodying the “for better or worse” vow. Sources close to the couple revealed Faulkner canceled filming commitments for her upcoming drama series to be with Torode at their Northamptonshire home. In a touching Instagram story on July 21, she shared a photo of them holding hands over a home-cooked meal: “Through thick and thin, my love. We’ve got this. ❤️”

Faulkner, 53, has always been Torode’s fiercest advocate. In a joint interview with Woman’s Weekly earlier in 2025, she said: “John’s the kindest man I know. He lives for food and family.” Rushing to support him, she reportedly organized family gatherings, therapy sessions, and even a quiet getaway to their favorite spot in Portugal. “Lisa’s been his anchor,” a friend told OK! Magazine. “She’s reminding him that life beyond MasterChef is full of possibilities.”

Their relationship, born on the MasterChef set, adds a layer of irony and poignancy. Faulkner won the celebrity edition in 2010, sparking a slow-burn romance. “I fell for her smile first, then her shepherd’s pie,” Torode joked in their 2020 memoir. Now, as the show that united them crumbles, their bond strengthens. Faulkner has publicly defended him, posting: “Words can hurt, but context matters. John’s heart is pure.” Her support has humanized the scandal, shifting some public sympathy toward the couple.

The Impact on MasterChef and the Culinary World

The end of Torode’s era spells uncertainty for MasterChef. With Wallace also out, the BBC faces a reboot. Rumors swirl of new judges like Monica Galetti or Marcus Wareing stepping in, but insiders fear ratings dips. “John and Gregg were the heart,” a producer told Variety. “Without them, it’s like a recipe missing key ingredients.”

Broader implications ripple through the industry. The scandal highlights ongoing issues in TV production—long hours, power imbalances, and unchecked behavior. Unions like BECTU are pushing for stricter protocols, while stars like Gordon Ramsay have spoken out: “We all make mistakes, but learning is key.” Torode’s case raises questions about historical offenses in a post-#MeToo, post-Black Lives Matter world. Is one alleged slip enough to erase 20 years of contributions?

Financially, Torode stands to lose millions. His BBC contract, worth an estimated £250,000 annually, is gone, alongside endorsements. But his empire endures: restaurants, cookbooks (over 10, including bestsellers like My Kind of Food), and a wine line. “He’s resilient,” says business partner Andrew Turner. “Expect a comeback—perhaps a solo show or YouTube channel.”

Reflections and the Road Ahead: Finding Redemption in the Rubble

In the weeks following his statement, Torode has retreated from the spotlight, focusing on family. He and Faulkner have been spotted walking their dogs, cooking simple meals, and attending therapy. “This has forced me to reflect,” he shared in a follow-up post on August 15, 2025. “I’ve learned about unconscious bias, the power of words. I’m committed to growth.”

Supporters point to his philanthropy—fundraising for food banks via the Trussell Trust and mentoring young chefs through his academy. “John’s given back more than most,” says mentee Anna Haugh. Critics, however, demand more: a public apology tour or donations to anti-racism causes.

As September 2025 unfolds, whispers of new projects emerge. Torode is reportedly in talks for a Netflix documentary on Australian cuisine, and Faulkner hints at a joint podcast. “It’s not the end—it’s a new chapter,” she told The Sun. Their story resonates with anyone who’s faced public downfall: redemption is possible through honesty and love.

Torode’s “It’s all over!” may close one door, but it opens others. From the ashes of controversy rises a man redefined—not by scandal, but by the support of his wife and the lessons learned. In the end, perhaps the greatest recipe is one for resilience.

Legacy of a Culinary Icon: What Fans Will Miss Most

Fans mourn the loss of Torode’s expertise. His critiques were tough but fair, pushing contestants to excellence. Remember the 2012 finale, where he praised winner Shelina Permalloo’s Mauritian-inspired dishes? Or the emotional 2020 COVID special, where he cooked for NHS workers? These moments defined MasterChef.

Young chefs like 2023 winner Chariya Khattiyot credit him: “John saw potential in me when I doubted myself.” His influence extends globally, with MasterChef Australia honoring him in tributes.

The Emotional Toll: Mental Health in the Spotlight

Torode’s openness about his heartbreak spotlights mental health in entertainment. “The pressure is immense,” says psychologist Dr. Linda Papadopoulos. “Public figures face amplified judgment.” His story encourages others to seek help, aligning with campaigns like Mind’s.

Faulkner’s role underscores partnership’s power. “She’s not just supporting—she’s leading the charge,” says relationship expert Jo Hemmings.

Looking Forward: A New Flavor for Torode

As Torode steps away, speculation abounds. A book on his MasterChef years? A farm-to-table venture? With Faulkner’s encouragement, the future tantalizes.

In his final words: “Thank you for the journey. It’s all over, but the passion burns on.” Heartbreaking? Yes. But inspiring too.