Penny Lancaster discovered her husband, Sir Rod Stewart, had launched a fierce defense on her behalf with a complete surprise. She was serving on jury duty, completely disconnected from the unfolding drama, when her phone lit up with a flood of messages upon returning home.
The uproar stemmed from an incident during her 2021 appearance on Celebrity MasterChef, detailed in her recent memoir. Lancaster had become visibly upset while attempting to make pancakes, an experience she now believes should have been handled with more care and support from the production team.
Unbeknownst to Penny, Rod had taken to Instagram, publicly condemning chef Gregg Wallace as a “tubby, bald-headed, ill-mannered bully” for his behavior towards her. She recalls her initial reaction as a stunned, “Oooooh Jeeeesus!”
While initially wishing Rod had alerted her to his post, Penny understood his protective instinct. She noted that he was spurred to action after reading accounts from other women who had similar negative experiences with Wallace.
The timing of events felt almost karmic, as Wallace subsequently lost his role on MasterChef following complaints about his conduct – complaints he denies. Simultaneously, Michelle Mone, another figure Lancaster addressed in her memoir, faced scrutiny over a PPE scandal.
Penny deliberately chose to remain silent in the press, opting instead to cooperate fully with investigators and ensure her account was accurately documented. She wanted to navigate the situation through official channels, believing Rod’s public statement demonstrated she wasn’t alone in her experience.
She expressed frustration that Wallace was allowed to continue his behavior for so long without intervention, highlighting the importance of accountability and the need for these conversations about bullying. It underscored a pattern of unchecked behavior.
Looking back, Lancaster feels a sense of closure, describing the consequences faced by both Wallace and Mone as “satisfying and surreal.” She emphasizes that her initial silence wasn’t a sign of weakness, but a strategic decision based on timing and careful consideration.
The incident ultimately empowered other women to come forward with their own stories, a ripple effect Penny finds particularly meaningful. It reinforced the power of public support and the importance of standing up against mistreatment.
Despite the stress of the experience, Lancaster believes valuable lessons were learned. She hopes the situation serves as a reminder that unchecked behavior has consequences and that speaking out can lead to positive change.
The couple, married since 2007, are known for their enduring love and unwavering support for one another. Rod’s swift and passionate defense of Penny is a testament to their strong bond and his fierce loyalty.
