MasterChef Australia is back and this time it’s personal! The popular cooking competition returns with a twist, featuring 24 contestants who are eager to reclaim their titles and vie for the coveted $250,000 prize. Titled "MasterChef Australia: Back to Win II," the new season premieres on Monday, April 28, 2025, at 7:30 PM on Channel 10.
This season promises to be an exciting blend of culinary talent and celebrity appearances, with renowned chefs like Gordon Ramsay, Curtis Stone, Maggie Beer, Peter Gilmore, Josh Niland, and Kirsten Tibballs gracing the kitchen. Adding to the fun, the comedic troupe Sooshi Mango will also make an appearance, ensuring that viewers are entertained as well as inspired.
Among the returning contestants is Andre Ursini, who made his television debut on MasterChef Australia 16 years ago. Now 44 years old, Andre is ready to step back into the kitchen after a long hiatus. In a candid admission, he revealed, "I haven't cooked in a long time. As I developed these businesses, it took me away from the kitchen. I delegate a lot; it's been less hands-on. It's more about managing people and numbers." Andre's return is highly anticipated, especially after he was eliminated on a Sri Lankan curry taste test during his first season.
Despite his time away from cooking, Andre remains passionate about the culinary arts. "Now I just want to concentrate on cooking again and have some fun—that's my main agenda," he expressed. His journey has been marked by success, having opened several notable eateries in South Australia, including the award-winning Andre's Cucina & Polenta Bar in Adelaide, ORSO, Villetta Porcini, and Lost Phoenix Farm.
Joining Andre are several familiar faces, including Laura Sharrad, who previously starred in seasons 6 and 12; Savindri Perera and Darrsh Clarke from season 16; Tim Bone from season 11; Declan Cleary from season 15; and Steph De Sousa from season 11. Each contestant brings their unique flair and culinary expertise to the competition.
Andy Allen, the winner of MasterChef Australia season four, continues to play a crucial role as a judge. After his triumphant win in 2012, Andy has become a beloved figure in the culinary world. He co-owns the Three Blue Ducks restaurant group, which received an Australian Good Food Guide chef’s hat in 2018. Returning to the judging panel alongside him are Sofia Levin, Poh Ling Yeow, and Jean-Christophe Novelli, each bringing their own culinary backgrounds and experiences to the table.
Jean-Christophe Novelli, a French-born chef, began his culinary career at just 14 years old. By age 20, he was the Head Chef for the Rothschild family. His extensive career includes opening multiple award-winning restaurants and launching a successful cookery school, the Novelli Academy, which has been recognized as one of the top 25 in the world. He expressed his excitement for the new season, stating, "Fantastique!"
Poh Ling Yeow, a multi-talented artist and chef, first gained fame as the runner-up in the inaugural season of MasterChef Australia in 2009. Since then, she has authored five cookbooks and hosted various television series. Her journey has come full circle as she returns as a judge, offering empathy and insight to contestants based on her own experiences. "I hope to inspire Aussies to explore a variety of cuisines and become mindful about food wastage," Poh shared.
Sofia Levin, a journalist and presenter, has made a name for herself in the culinary world, celebrating culture and connection through food. Her #EatCuriously movement encourages individuals to step outside their culinary comfort zones. As a judge, she aims to foster a more tolerant and delectable world through food.
The excitement surrounding MasterChef Australia: Back to Win II is palpable, with fans eager to see how returning contestants will fare in the competition. Will Andre Ursini reclaim his culinary prowess? Can Laura Sharrad secure another top spot? With a mix of seasoned contestants and celebrity judges, this season is set to deliver thrilling challenges and unforgettable moments.
As the show prepares to air, anticipation builds among fans and contestants alike. With the stakes higher than ever and the competition fierce, MasterChef Australia: Back to Win II promises to be a season filled with culinary artistry, emotional moments, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.
MasterChef Australia airs Monday through Wednesday at 7:30 PM on Channel 10, and fans are encouraged to tune in for what is sure to be another captivating season of culinary creativity and competition.
