Lisa Faulkner is planning a 'big celebration' with her husband John Torode to mark his 60th birthday, which falls next week. The couple, who have been married for six years, met when Faulkner appeared as a contestant on MasterChef in 2010.
Faulkner, 53, told TV Times: 'I've got some nice things planned. It's a big birthday so friends and family are having a celebration for him - which he knows about.' Torode said his big day will be marked with 'a little fizz and joy'.
The couple's relationship began after their respective previous marriages ended. Faulkner admitted she was initially 'petrified' of Torode, recalling: 'He was a judge on a show I loved and I was petrified of him. He was brilliant and gave us all tips so you didn't want to let him down.'
Torode's birthday celebrations come amid his departure from MasterChef after the BBC decided not to renew his contract following an investigation into historical allegations of racist language. Torode denied the allegations, stating he has 'no recollection of the alleged incident' and that the inquiry 'could not even state the date or year'.
In a statement, Torode said he 'loved every minute working on MasterChef' but felt it was 'time to pass the cutlery to someone else'. His last appearances will be on Celebrity MasterChef and two Christmas specials.
Despite the controversy, Faulkner and Torode have continued their Weekend Kitchen show on ITV, which returned this Sunday. The couple's relationship has endured, with Torode supporting Faulkner last year when she spoke out about inappropriate jokes from former co-star Gregg Wallace.
