Niccolò Califano and Eleonora Riso, contestants from MasterChef Italia 13, have made headlines not just for their culinary talents but for their intriguing relationship since the popular cooking show concluded. During their time on the show, viewers were captivated by their camaraderie, which some speculated might evolve beyond friendship. Now, as they navigate their respective careers, it seems their bond has transformed but remains strong, albeit without the romantic spark many fans hoped for.
The 27-year-old Califano, who nearly claimed victory on MasterChef, has pivoted his career from being purely a medical doctor to pursuing his passions for cooking and theater. With his recent debut at Teatro Rasi in Ravenna, presenting the gourmet play Mangiare tutto!, Califano reflects on his experience and the friendship he developed with Riso on the show. He describes it as starting off spontaenously during their team challenges, where their roles naturally fell together – him as the strategist and her as the executor. Regarding their friendship, he states, "Tutto è iniziato in modo super spontaneo all’interno della trasmissione," emphasizing their organic connection.
Meanwhile, the 29-year-old Riso, who dazzled both judges and the audience alike to clinch the title of MasterChef 13 champion, now finds herself immersed in the culinary world beyond television. She has been conducting masterclasses across Toscana, bringing her cooking expertise to local communities. Riso reveals her excitement about the opportunities following her win, stating: "Stiamo cercando di lavorare ancora insieme..." indicating their efforts to collaborate professionally, albeit their individual careers are demanding.
Despite the affectionate chemistry witnessed during their time on the show, both contestants have clarified their status post-MasterChef. Califano acknowledges, "Con Eleonora c’è del tenero, ma non stiamo insieme..." which highlights the supportive yet platonic nature of their relationship. The rumors of romance seem to have dissipated, with both opting to cherish their bond as friends rather than exploring the romantic avenues suggested by viewers.
The light-hearted dynamics between the duo were humorously captured during their recent appearance together on MasterChef 14. Riso jokingly remarked, "La nostra è una relazione difficile, lui rompe le scatole..." teasing her friend and reflecting the friendly banter they enjoy, which contrasts with the competitive environment of the show.
Both Califano and Riso's individual journeys display their commitment to personal passions and professional growth without the romantic entanglements some hoped for. While they occasionally appear together on social media, advertising appearances for various brands, their primary focus seems to remain on their respective careers rather than on rekindling any romantic connection.
Reflecting on his MasterChef experience, Califano expressed gratitude for the opportunities it provided, both for his culinary skills and creative expression. He believes the show was pivotal, stating, "La storia dell’uomo può essere vista alla luce della storia del cibo..." recognizing the culture and storytelling involved within culinary experiences.
The future for both seems bright as they continue to pursue their paths apart yet with encouragement and friendship fueling their respective ambitions. They have created successful channels to share their love for cooking through various creative mediums, including social media. Califano’s growing presence on Instagram indicates his leap toward culinary content creation, with aspirations of producing travel-based culinary documentaries.
At present, their relationship encapsulates the perfectly blended balance of platonic support and mutual respect, evidenced by their efforts to work together again at food-related events. Though they have decided to cultivate separate paths, their shared history on MasterChef will always remain. At the end of the day, it's the foundation of friendship – built on experience, respect, and admiration – which truly thrives.