The iconic BBC cookery competition, Celebrity MasterChef, makes its highly anticipated return to television screens tonight, but it does so amidst the most significant crisis in the programme's history.
A Show Transformed: New Judges Take Over
This twentieth series arrives after months of turmoil that saw the dramatic exit of its long-standing hosts, Gregg Wallace and John Torode. An investigation into Wallace's behaviour led to his dismissal, with 45 out of 83 allegations being upheld. His co-presenter, Torode, also departed the BBC following an accusation of using an 'extremely offensive racist term', which he stated he had 'no recollection' of.
Torode confirmed that this celebrity series would be his last. He filmed the episodes alongside food critic Grace Dent, a former MasterChef contestant herself. For the future of the main MasterChef series, Dent will be joined by new judge Anna Haugh.
In a statement, Grace Dent expressed her excitement, saying she was 'over the moon' to return to the kitchen and work with Anna, whom she praised for her 'incredible experience'. Anna Haugh reciprocated the sentiment, stating she was 'delighted' to be back and judging alongside the writer, whose 'writing and wit' she had long admired.
The Star-Studded 2025 Contestants
This series features a glittering line-up of fifteen celebrities from various fields, all vying for the coveted trophy currently held by last year's champion, Strictly Come Dancing star Vito Coppola.
The famous faces entering the kitchen are:
- Alfie Boe
- Alun Wyn Jones
- Antony Costa
- Ashley Cain
- Chris Hughes
- Dawn O’Porter
- Gaz Choudhry
- Ginger Johnson
- Jaki Graham
- Jamie Lomas
- Jodie Ounsley
- Katie McGlynn
- Michelle Heaton
- Noreen Khan
- Uma Jammeh
When and Where to Watch
Celebrity MasterChef begins its five-week run tonight, Monday 17 November, at 9pm on BBC One. The action continues with a second episode tomorrow at 8pm and a third on Thursday at 9pm. All episodes airing this week will be available to stream on BBC iPlayer immediately after broadcast.
