The world of British television cooking competitions is about to experience a seismic shift, as two celebrated women—Grace Dent and Anna Haugh—are set to take the reins as judges and presenters on the iconic MasterChef. This move marks a historic departure for a show long dominated by male hosts and comes in the wake of the much-publicized departure of former judges Gregg Wallace and John Torode, both of whom had helmed the program since its 2005 relaunch. As reported by both The Sun and TV Zone, the announcement has stirred excitement and curiosity among fans and industry insiders alike.
Dent, 51, a respected food critic known for her sharp wit and incisive palate, will join forces with Haugh, 44, an acclaimed chef and familiar face to MasterChef viewers. Haugh's recent stints as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals and appearances on other BBC culinary staples such as Ready Steady Cook and Morning Live have cemented her reputation as a formidable presence in the kitchen and on screen. According to TV Zone, both women are set to bring their unique chemistry and expertise to a program that has, until now, rarely seen female leadership at its helm.
The decision to appoint Dent and Haugh was not made lightly. A source quoted by The Sun revealed, “It’s really exciting that two women are judging the show, especially as, historically, it’s been dominated by men, but coming to the decision hasn’t been easy. Grace and Anna have brilliant chemistry. They know it’s a big responsibility and can’t wait to deliver for the fans.” This sentiment underscores the significance of the move—not just for the show, but for the broader landscape of British food television, where gender representation has often lagged behind other sectors.
The shake-up follows the dismissal of Wallace and Torode earlier in 2025 over allegations of inappropriate behaviour, as reported by both The Sun and TV Zone. Their exit marked the end of a two-decade era for the pair, who had become synonymous with MasterChef’s brand of high-pressure, high-drama culinary competition. Dent herself had recently filmed an upcoming series of Celebrity MasterChef with Torode before his departure, but the BBC has yet to confirm whether that series will ever air.
In an interesting twist, the selection process for the new judging panel reportedly included other high-profile chefs. TV Zone notes that Tom Kerridge was initially considered for a spot but was ultimately ruled out due to commercial commitments with Marks & Spencer, which would have clashed with the BBC’s strict guidelines on advertising and sponsorship. This left the door open for Dent and Haugh to step up, bringing a fresh dynamic to a show in need of renewal.
Meanwhile, the MasterChef franchise is undergoing changes on multiple fronts. The BBC recently announced that Matt Tebbutt, best known as the affable host of Saturday Kitchen on BBC One, will join the judging panel for the next series of MasterChef: The Professionals. Tebbutt will work alongside returning judges Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti, both of whom have become household names thanks to their uncompromising standards and deep industry experience.
Tebbutt, who boasts a wealth of experience in both the restaurant industry and food broadcasting, expressed his enthusiasm for the new role. As quoted by TV Zone, he said, “It’s an absolute honour to be working alongside these two titans of the food world. Their knowledge and uncompromising attitude is now the stuff of legend and I look forward to them taking me under their wing and seeing the chefs get off to a flying start in the competition!”
Wareing, too, is eager for the collaboration. “I’m really looking forward to working with Matt and his experience, both on screen and in the industry, speaks for itself. This show is all about showcasing and celebrating the best up and coming talent emerging from our country’s professional kitchens and Matt, Monica and I will be expecting the highest standards from our chefs this year. I can’t wait for what will be a fantastic next series.” Galetti echoed these sentiments, saying, “To have Matt join us is really exciting. Seeing what skills our contestants showcase and tasting their culinary creations is always a delight—Marcus and I look forward to welcoming Matt to the MasterChef studios and discovering our next champion.”
Behind the scenes, the changes have the backing of key BBC figures. David Ambler, Executive Editor of MasterChef, described Tebbutt as “an ideal choice” for the judging line-up, citing his “career as a chef, restaurateur and food broadcaster.” Kalpna Patel-Knight, Head of Entertainment at the BBC, added, “With a natural warmth that viewers already love from Saturday Kitchen, coupled with a sharp eye for talent, Matt will be bringing a wealth of culinary expertise to the MasterChef kitchen and will be a fantastic addition to the line-up alongside Monica and Marcus.”
The upcoming season of MasterChef: The Professionals is slated to run for 21 hour-long episodes, produced by Shine TV for BBC One and iPlayer. According to TV Zone, the first stage of the competition will also feature a rotating cast of guest judges, adding another layer of excitement and unpredictability for the aspiring professional chefs entering the fray.
This flurry of changes comes at a time when reality and competition-based cooking shows face mounting pressure to evolve. Viewer expectations have shifted, and the demand for diversity, transparency, and ethical conduct has never been higher. The BBC’s willingness to make bold casting choices—particularly the appointment of two women to lead its flagship food program—reflects a broader cultural movement toward inclusivity and accountability in British media.
For fans, the anticipation is palpable. Dent and Haugh bring not only a wealth of culinary knowledge but also a fresh perspective that many hope will reinvigorate the MasterChef brand. Their combined experience—spanning food criticism, professional kitchens, and live television—positions them to steer the show into a new era, one that promises both continuity and change.
As the dust settles and preparations for the next series ramp up, all eyes are on the new judging panels. Will Dent and Haugh’s chemistry translate into compelling television? Can Tebbutt, Wareing, and Galetti maintain the high standards that have become the hallmark of MasterChef: The Professionals? One thing’s for certain: the next chapter in MasterChef’s storied history is shaping up to be its most intriguing yet.
With the BBC’s announcements still fresh and fans eager for more details, the stage is set for a season full of surprises, high drama, and—of course—mouthwatering food. The culinary world will be watching closely as these new faces step up to the plate.
