The channel said it was "the right thing to do" for the chefs who took part, but British broadcast union Bectu has criticized the BBC for rewarding "bad behavior" with prime-time coverage.

The controversial new series of MasterChef, which is presented by sacked hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode, has landed on BBC iPlayer, leaving fans of the show torn.

MasterChef is returning tonight for an all-new series, which still features axed judges Gregg Wallace and John Torode