The latest episode of Celebrity MasterChef UK failed to sizzle on Tuesday night, leaving a significant portion of its audience cold and prompting a wave of criticism on social media.
Viewers Voice Their Displeasure Online
Bored fans did not hold back, taking to platform X to express their disappointment, with many revealing they had turned off their televisions. The consensus was that the episode felt uneventful and unnecessarily slow-paced.
One viewer bluntly stated they 'Can’t watch Grace Dent! Bad watch', while another quipped that 'The word ‘Celebrity’ is doing a lot of heavy lifting today'. Further complaints highlighted the pacing, with comments like 'They're dragging this taste test out. It's a bit boring. Just get on with it' and 'Who is this woman it’s rubbish now switched off'.
A Trio of Culinary Challenges
The episode featured five celebrities battling through three kitchen tests. The contestants were Radio DJ Noreen Khan, Gladiators star Jodie Ounsley, rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones, singer Alfie Boe, and reality TV personality Ashley Cain.
The first task involved identifying a mystery ingredient under a cloche before raiding the MasterChef larder. The second round tested their palates with a blindfolded taste test, which Alun Wyn Jones won, earning himself an extra ten minutes in the final challenge.
For the main event, judges John Torode and Grace Dent asked the stars to create a dish they would serve from their own food truck at the MasterChef Street Market. While Alfie Boe's smashed potatoes and Jodie Ounsley's sweet Yorkshire pudding impressed, all five contestants were sent through to the next round.
Mixed Reception for New Judge Grace Dent
The criticism aimed at Tuesday's episode comes amid a period of transition for the long-running show. While some viewers took aim at Grace Dent's judging style this week, her appointment as a permanent judge has largely been well-received since the new series began last month.
Dent, 52, took over from Gregg Wallace, who was sacked earlier this year after more than 40 complaints about his conduct were upheld. Initial viewer feedback praised Dent, calling her a 'great addition' with a 'calming effect' and appreciating her humour and humility.
The episode also featured John Torode, who filmed the celebrity series before his own exit from the BBC. Torode was let go in July following accusations of using a racist slur. The BBC stated that airing the pre-recorded series was not a 'straightforward decision', but confirmed that every celebrity contestant and guest had given their blessing for it to be broadcast.
Looking ahead, Grace Dent will take on a leading role full-time when she joins Anna Haugh to present the 2026 series, a move she has suggested will help rescue the competition from its previous 'male energy'.
