Meghan Markle has been unveiled as a surprise celebrity judge on MasterChef Australia, leaving contestants visibly stunned. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, appears dressed in black and says she is "so excited" to be part of the programme in a promo released by Channel 10.
Surprise guest judge appearance
The episode was filmed during Meghan's visit to Australia with Prince Harry in April and is scheduled to air on Sunday. The promo shows judges Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli introducing a mystery guest before Meghan walks on set.
As a table of fresh fruit and vegetables is revealed, Meghan says: "I love incredible produce and farm to table. Really excited for this." Contestant Aaron Kher appears particularly flummoxed, fanning himself and saying: "Like, what is my life?"
Culinary delights and reactions
The trailer also shows a glimpse of dishes prepared on the day. One creation leaves Meghan in a trance, as she says: "Rubbing my temples because I can't understand how this is so good."
According to reports, Meghan and her team were annoyed after allegedly asking MasterChef Australia producers not to refer to her as 'royalty'. In the promotional clip, judge Poh Ling Yeow introduced her as "MasterChef royalty" and "The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle."
Backstage tensions
New Idea reported that Poh was left feeling 'upset' after her introduction. A source told the publication: "It wasn't about Meghan personally. Poh felt she had been unintentionally drawn into a royal protocol issue she never intended to be part of."
Another insider alleged Poh had hoped to contact Meghan directly to apologise but was advised to let the production team handle it. "She was willing to reach out immediately," the source said. "But she was advised to leave it for production to handle."
Meghan's recent travels
After her trip to Australia, Meghan was in the UK last month, visiting King Charles with Harry and their children. She revealed that the family visited Althorp, the Spencer family home, during their June trip. Meghan posted a carousel of 12 pictures to her 4.7 million Instagram followers with the caption 'Summer Holiday', including one taken at the Northamptonshire estate.
