Royal fans have vowed to boycott the upcoming Masterchef Australia episode featuring Meghan Markle as a guest judge, with many declaring they will switch off their televisions when it airs. The Duchess of Sussex, 44, filmed the episode during a trip to Australia with Prince Harry earlier this year, and Channel 10 Australia has confirmed it will broadcast on Sunday, July 26 at 7pm.
Announcement Sparks Backlash
Channel 10 Australia announced the episode via a social media post this week, writing: "The countdown is on! Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, joins the #MasterChefAU kitchen as a guest judge, bringing her love of food, entertaining and seasonal produce to one of the competition's most memorable challenges. Tune in on Sunday, 26 July at 7pm on @channel10au."
While some fans expressed excitement, the majority of comments under the announcement were negative. One user wrote: "Definitely won't be watching." Another said: "Great reminder not to watch it." A third commented: "Thanks for the heads up and making it easier to avoid." Another viewer stated: "I am a cook show lover but this person coming in front of my tv, there's no way I am going to watch her." One more added: "Ahhh the episode I will not be watching."
Meghan's Cooking Show History
Meghan's appearance on Masterchef Australia follows her own Netflix cooking series, "With Love, Meghan," which launched last year. Two series and a festive special were released within a year, though a third season is not believed to be in development despite the show being nominated for an Emmy award. According to People magazine, the series faces strong competition in the Daytime Emmy Awards, including A Different Breed, George to the Rescue, The Motherhood, and The Wizard of Paws. The winner will be announced at the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards on October 30, 2026.
Public Sentiment
The backlash reflects ongoing divided public opinion on the Duchess of Sussex, with royal fans particularly vocal in their disapproval. The episode, set to feature a memorable challenge, has become a focal point for those critical of Meghan's media appearances.
