Iuzzini told Mic during the initial investigation that he’d come of age in an era wherein such behavior was permissible in kitchens, and though he’d been parroting this learned behavior, he was “deeply sorry to those who felt hurt.”In spite of the allegations contained in the initial investigation, the first episode of The Great American Baking Show aired last Thursday. But a follow-up investigation from Paley and Mic published on Tuesday detailed allegations of sexual misconduct rom four more former former employees of Iuzzini. In one of the anecdotes relayed in the story, Iuzzini had reportedly hired a stripper for an after-hours work event in 2004 for a performance that involved the performer "squeezing an egg out of her crotch."READ MORE: In 2017, Some Chefs Still Don’t Understand Sexual Harassment
“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,” a spokesperson for the network told Variety on Wednesday. ABC did not respond to immediate request for comment from MUNCHIES on Thursday morning. (Earlier this week, the network asked Mario Batali to step away from his hosting duties on The Chew after an Eater report alleged decades of sexual misconduct and harassment by Batali both in work- and non-work settings.)While I understand ABC felt pressured to make this difficult decision, I am extremely disappointed and saddened that the show will not continue to air as scheduled. I feel terrible for the bakers, fans of the show, the cast and everyone else involved in the production. I stand by my apology for some unprofessional behavior 8-10 years ago, but the sexual harassment allegations and many other reports against me were sensationalized and simply not true.
My friends, family and those close to me can attest that over the last several years I have worked hard on improving myself and made many positive contributions to the industry in which I dedicated my life. Nonetheless, I will use this experience as another opportunity in my life to listen, learn and continue growing as a friend, family member, chef, mentor and as a human being.
ABC will air The Great Christmas Light Fight and CMA Country Christmas in place of The Great American Baking Show. The season's winner, the network told Variety, will be announced at a later date.READ MORE: Mario Batali on Leave from Restaurants and TV Following Sexual Harassment Allegations