Meghan Markle has been officially confirmed as a host for the forthcoming series of Junior MasterChef Australia. The Duchess of Sussex revealed she "can't wait" to make her return to the show, having previously appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia earlier this year.
Official announcement and co-host
In an official statement, Meghan said: "I had an incredible time with the whole team at MasterChef this past April, so when they approached me to come back and work with this young group of talent, it was an easy yes. I love cooking with my own kids, so seeing what these young stars create in the kitchen is going to be a lot of fun. I can't wait to see what they cook up."
Paramount Australia made the announcement on Tuesday, October 27, confirming that Meghan's comeback to Australian television will see the programme broadcast on Network Ten next year. She will co-host alongside celebrated Australian chef and TV personality Poh Ling Yeow.
Previous MasterChef appearance
Meghan, 45, previously graced the 18th season of MasterChef Australia as a guest judge, where hopeful contestants were tasked with transforming a staple ingredient into a dish "fit for a duchess". Paramount revealed that her appearance attracted the show's biggest Sunday viewership since 2023.
A spokesperson for the company added: "With Poh's culinary expertise and Meghan's enthusiasm for cooking and nurturing young talent, Junior MasterChef Australia promises to serve up plenty of inspiration as the next generation of Australian cooks steps into the kitchen."
Filming plans and family visits
Meghan is expected to be stationed in Australia throughout the filming schedule, which is anticipated to span several weeks during early to mid-2027, according to Australian publication News.com.au. She could potentially receive visits from her husband the Duke of Sussex along with their children Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, although no final arrangements have been confirmed, a source revealed to the outlet.
The show's production is slated to occur in Melbourne. Harry and Meghan relocated back to England in August, six years following their departure from royal duties to establish a fresh start in Montecito, California.
Earlier this month, an insider disclosed to The Telegraph that Meghan is "reading a lot of scripts", and intends to prioritise her family, lifestyle brand and reviving her acting profession rather than undertaking pseudo-royal engagements. The source noted that should Meghan find spare time, she would pursue "some charity work", emphasising "she's not a working royal" but instead a dedicated mother and businesswoman.
Speculation had been mounting regarding Meghan's future plans, with reports suggesting the former Suits actress was in discussions for a part in Netflix's The Gentlemen.
