Matt Tebbutt was forced to issue an on-air apology during the latest episode of Saturday Kitchen on July 18 after guest Jordan North appeared to mouth a swear word when the food vote was revealed. The incident divided viewers, with some criticising the guests and the removal of the 'food hell' option.
Apology Over Mouthed Swear Word
At the end of the show, Tebbutt addressed the audience directly: 'Can I just apologise, because when we revealed that vote, Jordan might have mouthed a naughty word.' Jordan quickly denied it, saying 'I didn't,' and wine expert Helen McGinn agreed, adding 'No, you didn't.' Tebbutt clarified he was just the messenger, stating 'I don't know, I've just been told... I'm just the messenger,' before Jordan apologised, saying 'Oh, I'm so sorry. Apologies.'
Format Change Sparks Criticism
Earlier in the episode, Tebbutt announced a change to the show's voting system. Instead of offering both 'food heaven' and 'food hell' options, only 'food heaven' was available for the guests. Tebbutt explained: 'Jordan, William, the viewers are in charge of what you get to eat at the end of the show. Because we're all about good manners here, and the two of you are in the hot seat, we've graciously removed hell from the equation this week. So, one of you will be treated to your food heaven.'
Some fans were not impressed, with one writing on social media: 'I can't vote HELL,' alongside angry faces. Another added: 'Both choices are hell today, so no point voting.'
Viewers Divided Over Guests
The choice of guests also sparked debate. Jordan North and William Hanson appeared to promote their podcast Help I Sexted My Boss, where they help listeners navigate modern life challenges. One viewer on X (formerly Twitter) wrote: 'This is really tedious,' while another asked: '#SaturdayKitchen who are the guests?'
However, many fans expressed delight. One wrote: 'Great guests, their podcast never fails to cheer me up if I feel down!' Another said: 'I mean, I don't know them, but they're funny and entertaining, so who cares?' A third added: 'I've always liked William.' One viewer even called the episode 'b***** brilliant! The type of programme you really want to be in the studio for.'
Chefs and Recipes Featured
Chefs Poppy O'Toole and Paul Ainsworth joined Tebbutt in the kitchen. Poppy prepared gochujang and roasted garlic prawn spaghetti with cheesy garlic bread, while Paul cooked roast chicken with olives, garlic and lemon, accompanied by hasselback potatoes. Helen McGinn selected wines to pair with each dish.
The episode is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
