Grace Dent, renowned food critic and new presenter of Celebrity MasterChef, has candidly shared her views on co-host John Torode amid recent changes and controversies surrounding the long-running BBC series. Dent, 52, stepped in as a presenter following the dismissal of former host Gregg Wallace, who was removed from the show in July after 45 complaints of inappropriate behavior were substantiated, including allegations of physical misconduct and offensive remarks.
Reflecting on her initial experiences, Dent described the MasterChef environment as dominated by “utter male energy all the time.” However, she welcomes the refreshing presence of chef Anna Haugh, who will co-present the upcoming amateur series with her, bringing a new, more balanced dynamic to the show.
The role of John Torode, 61, has also come under scrutiny after an investigation upheld an accusation that he used an “extremely offensive racist term” in the past, although Torode claims to have no memory of the incident. Despite this, Dent expressed strong admiration for her co-star, calling him “one of the kindest, most concerned, clever, thoughtful men” she knows.
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Both Dent and Haugh have deep ties to the MasterChef franchise. Dent was a contestant on MasterChef: Battle of the Critics in 2023 and frequently appears as a critic on the show, while Haugh previously judged MasterChef: The Professionals in 2022. Their prior involvement lends authenticity and passion to their new presenting roles.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Dent told the BBC, “I’m over the moon to be coming back to the MasterChef kitchen and unearthing what culinary skills people have been cooking up behind closed doors. It’s a joy to work alongside Anna, who brings incredible expertise to the table. I’m in for such a treat with this series – I can’t wait to get started.”
Anna Haugh, 45, who began her culinary career in Dublin before moving to London, has worked with celebrated chefs like Philip Howard and Gordon Ramsay. She is currently a resident chef on BBC’s Morning Live and a familiar face on Saturday Kitchen. Haugh expressed delight at joining the MasterChef family as a presenter: “I’m thrilled to be back on MasterChef and judging alongside the wonderful Grace Dent, whose wit and writing I’ve admired for years. The show has inspired countless home cooks and professionals alike, and I can’t wait for the competition to begin.”
Celebrity MasterChef returns to BBC One tonight at 9 pm, featuring a star-studded lineup including singer Antony Costa, Paralympian Gaz Choudhry, drag star Ginger Johnson, actress Katie McGlynn, and reality star Uma Jammeh.