The thirteenth edition of MasterChef premiered on March 31, 2025, promising an exciting culinary showdown that brings together contestants from various generations, including baby boomers, Generation X, millennials, and Generation Z. This season not only aims to entertain but also to honor victims of the Dana storm with special tributes throughout the competition.
As the beloved cooking competition returns, its judges—Jordi Cruz, Pepe Rodríguez, and Samantha Vallejo-Nágera—remain at the helm, having been part of the show since its inception in 2013. Their presence has been instrumental in shaping the show's identity, and they continue to draw in viewers with their expertise and charisma.
In a recent press conference, María Eizaguirre, the Director of Communication and Participation at RTVE, emphasized the unique nature of this season. "Like a good recipe, the show enriches by combining tradition, connectivity, diversity, and culinary creativity from different generations," she stated, highlighting how the show reflects the evolution of culinary arts through the years.
Macarena Rey, the executive producer from Shine Iberia, described this edition as the most demanding yet, as contestants are genuinely committed to pursuing culinary careers. She noted that this season is not just about competition but also about giving back, with challenges designed to support various charitable causes, including a cooking day for the Cáritas Social Dining Room in Plasencia and collaborations with the Semillas hospitality school, which helps individuals at risk of social exclusion.
The judges also shared their insights about the contestants. Pepe Rodríguez expressed his belief that the participants have come to learn and transform their lives through the experience. "They are here to change their lives," he affirmed, reflecting the transformative power of the show.
Jordi Cruz, who has been a significant figure in the culinary world, noted, "We put a lot of passion into both our personal and professional families." His dedication to the craft is evident, as he is recognized as the third chef with the most Michelin stars in Spain, a testament to his culinary prowess.
Samantha Vallejo-Nágera, who has carved out her own niche in the culinary landscape, expressed her preference for the senior edition of MasterChef, stating, "It’s the one I like the most. People with a lot of passion for gastronomy and a strong desire to win." Her enthusiasm for the competition resonates with the contestants, who come from diverse backgrounds.
This season has attracted a wide array of candidates, including a 75-year-old TikToker famous for her affordable apple pie recipe, a police officer from the GEO, and even a priestess who practices culinary alchemy. Such diversity not only showcases the breadth of culinary talent but also reflects the show's commitment to inclusivity.
Former contestants have also shared how MasterChef has impacted their lives. Carlos Maldonado, a winner from season three, remarked, "The program was a trampoline that allowed me to reach my goals through hard work. It made me feel useful." Similarly, María Lo, the winner of season ten, described the show as a fantastic format that offers endless possibilities for learning and growth.
As the competition unfolds, viewers can expect to witness not just culinary skills but also personal stories of resilience and ambition. The participants, driven by their passion for cooking, aspire to make their mark in the culinary world.
In addition to the competitive aspect, this season will feature special challenges dedicated to solidarity, including tests in memory of the victims of the Dana storm. This initiative reflects the show's commitment to social responsibility and community engagement, a theme that resonates deeply with both contestants and audiences alike.
As the judges prepare to evaluate the creations of 40 passionate candidates, they are eager to see how each contestant interprets the culinary challenges presented to them. With a mix of traditional and innovative approaches, this season promises to be a celebration of culinary arts across generations.
In the end, MasterChef continues to evolve, reflecting societal changes and culinary trends while maintaining its core mission: to inspire and educate aspiring chefs. As viewers tune in, they will not only witness a cooking competition but also a platform that changes lives and fosters a love for gastronomy.
