The return of Celebrity MasterChef sparked immediate confusion for viewers tuning into the 20th series. While familiar faces battled in the kitchen, a shadow hung over the premiere – the unexpected presence of John Torode, just weeks after news broke of his departure.
The BBC confirmed that episodes featuring Torode had already been filmed before his contract was terminated, but for many fans, seeing him on screen felt jarring. Social media buzzed with questions and disbelief, with viewers openly wondering if they had missed crucial information about the shake-up.
The circumstances surrounding Torode’s exit were serious. An investigation revealed allegations of inappropriate behavior, including a substantiated claim that he used a racial slur during a staff party in 2018. Torode himself maintains he has no memory of the incident, a detail that only deepened the controversy.
The investigation also scrutinized the conduct of his co-star, Gregg Wallace, upholding 45 out of 83 allegations against him, including instances of unwanted physical contact. Both Torode and Wallace were ultimately dismissed from the show, marking a dramatic end to a long-running partnership.
Beyond the off-screen drama, the first episode itself drew criticism. Viewers found the challenges underwhelming, particularly a blindfolded taste test that seemed to expose a surprising lack of culinary discernment among the celebrity contestants. Identifying basic fruits and vegetables proved a stumbling block for some.
“This taste test is poor,” one viewer commented online, questioning how such a simplistic challenge could possibly assess cooking ability. Others echoed the sentiment, describing the episode as “dumbed down” and more akin to a children’s game than a professional cooking competition.
Stepping into the judging void alongside Anna Haugh is Grace Dent, a respected food critic known for her sharp wit and discerning palate. Dent has publicly expressed her admiration for Torode, describing him as a kind and thoughtful friend, even as his career enters a new chapter.
Torode himself expressed shock at the manner of his departure, claiming he was “blindsided” by the decision and frustrated by the lack of specific details surrounding the allegations. He acknowledged considering his future and ultimately decided to embrace a “post-MasterChef era.”
The BBC defended its actions, stating they take allegations of racism extremely seriously and demanded action from the production company. While Torode denies the incident and maintains his innocence, his contract was not renewed, bringing an end to his two-decade run with the beloved cooking show.
Despite the turmoil, Celebrity MasterChef continues, now with a new dynamic and a renewed focus on the culinary skills of its celebrity contestants. The series promises to evolve, even as it navigates the complexities of its recent past.
