Grace Dent and Anna Haugh are the new faces of MasterChef, taking over after a period of turmoil for the show. Dent, a restaurant critic for The Guardian, and Haugh, an Irish chef, aim to focus on the future rather than the past controversies involving former hosts Gregg Wallace and John Torode.
Dent grew up watching MasterChef with her father in Carlisle, laughing at the critics. She now finds herself in a similar role, co-hosting alongside Haugh. The pair, who have been guest judges on the show for years, have developed a close working relationship, often finishing each other's sentences.
Despite the show's recent scandals—including an independent report substantiating 45 allegations against Wallace and one against Torode—Dent and Haugh are not dwelling on the past. 'All I can think about is the future,' Dent said. 'I can't look back. I haven't got time.'
The new judges bring a dynamic contrast: Dent is funny and warm, while Haugh is demanding of excellence. In the first episode, Haugh is withering about a contestant who adds flour to his hollandaise. 'I am not looking forward to tasting that,' she says.
Off-camera, the pair share a love of simple meals. Dent admits to eating 'seven olives, a tablespoon of peanut butter and some Weetabix' after filming, while Haugh enjoys a giant burrata in her pyjamas. Their camaraderie and authenticity are expected to revitalise the beloved cooking competition.
