Carol Vorderman claims she was ‘sacked’ from show after reporting inappropriate behaviour
Carol Vorderman has claimed she “never appeared again” on a TV show after she made a complaint about someone’s behaviour.
Her comments come as BBC MasterChef presenter Gregg Wallace faces several allegations of sexual misconduct across his 20-year career.
Wallace, 60, stepped down from his role as a host and judge of MasterChef following claims from former contestants, media personalities and staff being made against him.
The allegations range from crude comments to incidents of groping and exposing himself.
Wallace’s lawyers have previously strenuously denied any wrongdoing, saying: “It is entirely false that he (Wallace) engages in behaviour of a sexually harassing nature.”
The saga has sparked conversations on how inappropriate behaviour and claims of such are handled in the British media, with Vorderman, 63, joining to share her own experiences.
“I’ve made complaints, you may not be surprised to hear, about various people,” the 63-year-old explained.
Vorderman alleged that she had been “sacked” after reporting improper conduct previously.
The Countdown fan-favourite also claimed she had to complain about someone’s behaviour “even in the last couple of years” and was penalised for it.
“I can’t tell you which show it was – but I complained about someone, and after that I never appeared again. It’s still happening today,” she revealed.
Vorderman blasted the industry’s attitude, arguing: “It’s about keeping people down, particularly women.”
“It’s not just Gregg Wallace. This kind of behaviour is widespread, and it’s been happening for years.”
The 63-year-old explained she has become “Auntie Carol” for younger women in the industry who come to her for advice on “how to survive.”
Vorderman said she advises: “You’ve got to play the game, even if it’s not right.”
“It’s not just about sexual harassment. It’s a culture that keeps women down and hides the truth,” she reiterated.
The former Coutdown star also called for a widespread “cultural shift” in the British media.
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“We need unions that protect people, not just the stars,” Vorderman explained.
She added: “We need producers and managers who are trained to manage properly, not just let things slide because it’s easier.”
In a call to action, the 63-year-old proclaimed: “It’s going to take all of us standing together to make it happen.”
