Melissa Leong axed just weeks ahead of filming
In an unexpected turn of events, Channel Ten's beloved cooking show, MasterChef Australia, is set to undergo a significant makeover in 2024. The series, which has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts and reality TV aficionados alike, will introduce a new judging panel, leaving fans both excited and apprehensive.
Melissa Leong, a fan favourite who joined the MasterChef family in 2019 alongside Andy Allen and Jock Zonfrillo, finds herself stepping away from the iconic show. Her arrival was part of a pivotal change in the program after the departure of original judges Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan, and George Calombaris due to a pay dispute. Sadly, the show faced another devastating loss with the sudden passing of Jock Zonfrillo earlier this year, leaving a void that needed to be filled.
According to sources reported by the Australian Financial Review, Leong was made aware of this transition only recently, just a month before the new season began filming. The Australian public, deeply attached to the familiar faces they've come to love on the show, was left wondering about the future of MasterChef.
The Daily Telegraph broke the news that the new judging panel would include former contestant Poh Ling Yeow, Michelin-starred chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, and food critic Sofia Levin. While these newcomers bring their own expertise and charm to the MasterChef stage, they must face the challenge of filling the shoes of their predecessors and winning over the show's passionate audience.
Andy Allen, who has been a part of the MasterChef journey since 2012, made the surprising decision to return to the series after what he described as a "difficult year" in 2023. Speaking about his choice, Allen said, "There is something special in the MasterChef Australia Kitchen, and it feels right to come back to work with the amazing production team, and to play my role in seeing the contestants do as I have done." With the new line-up, 2024 promises to be the beginning of a fresh chapter in the show's history.
Notably, there were rumours that celebrity chef Jamie Oliver might join the show as a replacement. However, it appears that the production team opted for a mix of MasterChef alumni and culinary expertise to usher in this new era.
Leong's connection with Channel Ten remains strong, as she is set to host Dessert Masters, alongside the pastry prodigy Amaury Guichon, known as "The Chocolate Guy". This spinoff series promises to showcase the skills of Australia's top pastry chefs and dessert makers through sweet-themed challenges. Dessert enthusiasts can anticipate an exciting showdown between some of the country's finest dessert creators.
A Network 10 spokesperson has clarified that the decision was not influenced by any ongoing investigation and that Leong will continue to be a cherished member of the MasterChef Australia family. The spokesperson stated, "Melissa is set to return for a second season of Dessert Masters in 2024, alongside fellow judge and pastry prodigy Amaury Guichon." The scheduling of both programs, with MasterChef and Dessert Masters airing back-to-back, called for each show to have its distinct style, personality and hosting team.
As fans eagerly await the new season of MasterChef Australia in 2024, there is a mix of anticipation and nostalgia. The departure of a beloved judge and the introduction of fresh faces signal a new chapter in the show's legacy.
Image: MasterChef Australia