Tonight, February 27, 2025, the finale of MasterChef Italia 14 is set to air at 9:15 PM on Sky Uno and streaming on NOW. After weeks of intense challenges and spectacular culinary showcases, one among the four finalists—Anna, Jack, Mary, and Simone—will be crowned as MasterChef Italia 2025, bringing this thrilling season to its climax.
This year's season of MasterChef, produced by Endemol Shine Italy, has captivated audiences, peaking at 2.5 million viewers for certain episodes. The show began with 19 contestants, eventually narrowing down to these four exceptional finalists, each with compelling personal stories and culinary aspirations.
Anna, 32, hails from Milan but currently resides in Venice. Her family background is particularly touching; her parents emigrated from China due to the one-child policy, creating significant cultural influences on her explorations of food. Throughout her time on the show, Anna has emphasized her dream to open a restaurant prioritizing sustainability, with aspirations for a Michelin Green Star. "I want to create a grand table where people from different cultures can enjoy the same food harmoniously," Anna expressed, highlighting her desire for global culinary unity.
Jack, known as Jacopo Cavenali, at 26 years old, stands out as both a content creator and an influencer with over 500,000 followers on TikTok. Despite his social media fame, he articulates his ambition to transition from content creation to becoming a private chef. Jack remarked, "I want to blend my love for fashion and food; my culinary passion deserves its spotlight beyond the screen." His vibrant personality and creative ideas have made him a favorite among viewers.
Mary Cuzzupè, aged 30 with Sicilian roots, brings her competitive spirit and ambition from her career as a human resources manager. Living now in Bergamo, she discovered her culinary passion during the pandemic. "I had to learn gluten-free cooking after discovering my celiac disease, but I continue to cook traditional dishes for friends and family. I have the potential, and I want to show it!" Mary declared with determination, reinforcing her commitment to excellence.
Finally, 36-year-old Simone Grazioso from Alba exemplifies the fusion of technique and creativity. With a background as a construction worker and football player, he brings life lessons and discipline to the kitchen. He dreams of presenting modern dishes rooted deeply in tradition, aiming for culinary excellence. His favorite chef is Antonino Cannavacciuolo, whom he admires greatly.
Judging the finale will be the esteemed trio of Bruno Barbieri, Antonino Cannavacciuolo, and Giorgio Locatelli, each bringing their unique perspectives to the table. Barbieri remarked, "Each contestant has shown immense growth throughout the competition; they all have distinct cuisines and brilliant ideas. It's going to be exciting!" The added pressure will come from renowned chef Mauro Colagreco, the holder of three Michelin stars, who will oversee the Mystery Box and the decisive invention tests.
For the finalists, the evening will consist of challenges demanding creativity and technical skills as they prepare their tasting menus—a culmination of their journeys throughout the season. "It’s about presenting who they are on their plates," Locatelli explained. Each menu is required to reflect the contestants' personalities, aspirations, and culinary skills perfected over the course of the series.
What’s at stake? Besides the prestigious title of MasterChef Italia, the winner will receive €100,000 worth of gold coins, publication of their first recipe book through Baldini + Castoldi, and access to ALMA - La Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana’s high-level training course.
This season highlights not just culinary skills but also reflects on sustainability efforts. Since 2013, MasterChef Italia has partnered with Last Minute Market to recover food surplus during recordings, benefitting the non-profit organization Opera Cardinal Ferrari. Over 51 tons of food have been saved, significantly reducing carbon emissions and water usage.
Tonight's grand finale promises exciting twists and turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The judges maintained throughout the season, "Everything can happen. We can’t wait to see the final dishes!" Whether it’s Anna’s sustainable initiative, Jack's culinary flair, Mary’s refined tastes, or Simone’s mastery, each contestant has proven they have what it takes to be MasterChef.
So, as the clock ticks down to 9:15 PM, anticipation builds. Who will wear the coveted chef's jacket and take home the title of MasterChef Italia 2025? The answer awaits as viewers tune in tonight on Sky Uno and via streaming on NOW!