Grace Dent is reportedly in the running to replace Gregg Wallace as the host of MasterChef, with the BBC expected to make an announcement this week
The experienced food critic, who appeared on I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here… last year, currently features as a guest judge on the popular cooking show alongside co-host John Torode.
The 51-year-old left the jungle after just a few days due to health concerns but has now emerged as a strong contender for the role, despite earlier speculation James Martin was the favourite to replace Wallace.
Wallace recently stepped back from MasterChef following misconduct allegations, including claims he asked a young journalist for a kiss.
The BBC has since pulled Christmas specials featuring Wallace, while production company Banijay investigates the complaints.
The 60-year-old initially said: "I can see the complaints coming from a handful of middle-class women of a certain age, just from Celebrity MasterChef. This isn't right."
However, he has now backtracked on this comment and apologised, saying he “wasn’t in a good headspace” when he spoke.
The Sun reports that Wallace had described his situation as terminal and does not expect to be back.
A source told the paper: “Grace is the perfect choice to replace Gregg on Masterchef.
"She’s knowledgeable about food and opinionated, plus it’s great to have a woman as a judge on the show. It will shake things up and give the series the boost it needs after such an upsetting and uncertain time.
“She is already a fan favourite and has won lots of respect in the foodie world thanks to her no-nonsense style and sense of humour.
“Bosses love her already, know she is a safe pair of hands and trust her to help steer the ship with John to steadier waters.”
Dent has not commented.
