Content Warning: This article discusses sexual assault, and rape. If you or someone you know are affected by the following story, you are not alone. To speak to someone, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732.
MasterChef Australia All Stars contestant Ben Ungermann was formally charged by Victoria Police with two counts of sexual assault.
The charges stem back to an incident that took place on February 23rd in Melbourne, whilst the show was in production. The alleged victim is a sixteen-year-old girl.
Victorian detectives from the sexual crime squad and the child abuse investigation team charged the 36-year-old Ungermann on March 6th.
“Melbourne Sexual Offences and Child Abuse Investigation Team detectives have charged a man following an incident in the Docklands earlier this year,” Victoria Police said in a statement.
“The arrest follows an investigation into an alleged sexual assault in Docklands on 23 February.”
Ungermann was a contestant on the current season of MasterChef Australia, and his sudden disappearance spurred speculation from viewers. On a pre-recorded episode that aired on Sunday, judges finally addressed his absence.
“So, before we get to today’s challenge, we’ve got some news. You’re probably wondering where Ben is, yeah?” judge Jock Zonfrillo said to the contestants. “Due to a personal matter, Ben has had to leave the competition and he will not be returning.”
The Queensland chef has been granted bail and is set to face the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court in June.
