Melissa Leong has spoken publicly after SBS pulled Taste of Art New Zealand from its schedule following allegations of misconduct involving her co-host, chef Vaughan Mabee.
The series had been due to premiere on SBS Food before the broadcaster confirmed it would not air the acquired New Zealand program “at this time”.
In a statement shared to Instagram, Leong said she had signed on to host the show last year because it celebrated “the highest potential in cuisine artistry” and the “tradition, culture and kai that Aotearoa is renowned for the world over”.
“And so it is with great disappointment that the show’s resounding success has been hampered by such unfortunate circumstances these past weeks,” Leong wrote.
“That disappointment is shared by the rest of the cast, crew, production and partners, all of whom put such love, energy and trust into making a hit.”
The statement posted to Leong’s Instagram page.
‘We need to listen when women speak up’
Leong also addressed the wider situation, saying her own experience as a victim-survivor meant she felt compelled to speak.
“As a victim-survivor, it would feel like a betrayal to me if I did not say something about the situation at hand, and it’s this:
“We need to listen when women speak up, because it isn’t without fear, trepidation and personal cost when we do so.”
Leong said she would not comment further while the matter was still unfolding.
“I trust you will all act with consideration and respect for each other,” she wrote.
She ended the post by writing: “Much kindness to you all, and I look forward to seeing you onscreen before too long.”
SBS pulls acquired series after allegations
SBS said the decision followed allegations of misconduct concerning Mabee, who has issued a formal public apology.
“SBS will not broadcast the acquired series Taste of Art New Zealand at this time,” the broadcaster said in a statement.
“This decision follows allegations of misconduct concerning the program’s co-host, Vaughan Mabee. Mr Mabee has issued a formal public apology in response to these allegations.”
Vaughan Mabee & Melissa Leong
Mabee, the former executive chef at Amisfield Restaurant in Queenstown, was the subject of allegations concerning workplace conduct.
Amisfield owner John Darby has previously confirmed Mabee was removed from the workplace while an independent investigation was conducted, before the restaurant accepted his resignation.
In his public apology, Mabee said: “I let my team, myself and my family down.”
“I unreservedly apologise to former colleagues for my inappropriate behaviour to them or any inconsiderate comments made.”
Taste of Art New Zealand is a seven-part cooking competition featuring 10 chefs working in teams of two. The contestants create dishes designed to work as both meals and edible works of art, with Leong and Mabee serving as judges.
The series aired on TVNZ1 earlier this year.
Main image: Melissa Leong