Melissa Leong Speaks Out After SBS Series Axed

has released a statement following the shock axing of her comeback SBS series Taste of Art.

The show was sensationally dropped by SBS last week hours before its scheduled premiere after Melissa's co-host chef Vaughan Mabee became embroiled in a workplace misconduct scandal.

Posting to Instagram on Wednesday, the former judge, 44, expressed her 'great disappointment' over the circumstances that led to her new project being binned. 

'I signed on to helm Taste of Art last year, excited and honoured to contribute to a show that celebrates the highest potential in cuisine artistry, as well as the tradition, culture and kai that Aotearoa is renowned for the world over,' she began.

But while praising the show and its cultural significance, Melissa acknowledged the controversy engulfing the production in recent weeks, saying its 'resounding success has been hampered by such unfortunate circumstances'.

Melissa also indirectly referenced the situation surrounding Mabee, who has been accused of aggressive and inappropriate behaviour towards former colleagues, including women.

'As a victim-survivor, it would feel like a betrayal to me if I did not say something about the situation at hand,' said Melissa, who while working in the hospitality industry many years ago.

'We need to listen when women speak up, because it isn't without fear, trepidation and personal cost when we do so.'

While declining to comment further as the matter continues to unfold, Melissa urged the public to approach the situation with 'consideration and respect for each other'.

She ended the statement on a warm note, writing: 'Much kindness to you all and I look forward to seeing you before too long.'

It comes after a source that SBS's decision to axe Taste of Art is a serious career setback for Melissa. 

'This was supposed to be an important reset project for Melissa,' they said. 

'Instead, it's become another setback tied to controversy and bad timing.'

The cancellation comes amid ongoing scrutiny over Leong's television future following her exit from MasterChef in 2023.

While the broadcaster has not indicated whether Taste of Art will air at a later date, insiders say the chances now appear slim.

'It's incredibly unfortunate timing for Melissa,' one source claims.

'She had nothing to do with the allegations, but from a public perception standpoint, this becomes another project associated with disappointment and instability.'

Daily Mail has approached Melissa and Taste of Art producers Screentime New Zealand for comment. 

Reports surfaced in NZ media early this month concerning allegations against Melissa's Taste of Art co-star.

Known as a celebrity chef in New Zealand, Mabee, 44, came under scrutiny over his conduct in the workplace.

Radio New Zealand (RNZ) recently reported that he was removed from his role as executive chef at the prestigious Amisfield Restaurant in Queenstown late last year.

An independent investigation was then undertaken, with former colleagues accusing Mabee of aggressive and inappropriate behaviour, much of it allegedly directed towards women.

Amisfield owner John Darby confirmed Mabee later resigned from the business following the investigation.

Sources say that SBS's decision to pull the show in the face of the scandal was 'last-minute'.

'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.'

Mabee apologised for his past behaviour in a media release earlier this week.

'I let my team, myself and my family down,' he said.

'I unreservedly apologise to former colleagues for my inappropriate behaviour to them or any inconsiderate comments made.'