ABC Pulls ‘Great American Baking Show’ Over Johnny Iuzzini Misconduct Allegations
Another ABC food series is in jeopardy over its host’s misdeeds. After celebrity chef Mario Batali left The Chew, ABC has pulled the remaining episodes of The Great American Baking Show over host Johnny Iuzzini’s reported sexual misconduct.
It was Mic that first chronicled claims against Iuzzini several weeks ago, as four former employees described a history of sexual harassment and abuse dating back to 2009. Four additional women came forward this week with accusations dating back to 2004, including aggressive and threatening behavior, the hiring of an adult performer for after-hours events, and filming a sexual encounter without consent. ABC now confirms that Iuzzini has been removed from the program, which itself has been pulled from the schedule:
In light of allegations that recently came to our attention, ABC has ended its relationship with Johnny Iuzzini and will not be airing the remainder of The Great American Baking Show episodes. ABC takes matters such as those described in the allegations very seriously and has come to the conclusion that they violate our standards of conduct. This season’s winner will be announced at a later date.
Unlike The Chew, The Great American Baking Show filmed the majority of its episodes earlier this year, and will not continue production. Episodes of The Great Christmas Light Fight and CMA Country Christmas will air in the Thursday 9:00 P.M. timeslot in the meantime.
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