The launch of Celebrity MasterChef's 20th series has sparked significant backlash from viewers, with many expressing disappointment over what they're calling a 'dumbed down' version of the beloved cooking competition.
Judge Controversy Sparks Confusion
Viewers were left scratching their heads when John Torode appeared as a judge on the new series, despite his highly publicised dismissal being announced back in July. The BBC confirmed that these episodes were filmed before his contract termination, but many fans had assumed they'd seen the last of him on the show.
Social media quickly filled with confused comments. One viewer questioned: 'I thought John had been sacked as well?!?' while another noted: 'You're not back for long fella.'
Torode was dismissed from MasterChef after an investigation substantiated claims he used a racial slur during a staff party in 2018. The TV chef maintains he has 'no recollection' of the incident occurring. His co-star Gregg Wallace was also dismissed at the same time after 45 out of 83 allegations against him were upheld.
Viewers Unimpressed with 'Simplistic' Challenges
Beyond the judge controversy, viewers expressed frustration with the quality of challenges in the premiere episode. A blindfolded taste test proved particularly unpopular as contestants struggled to identify basic fruits, mistaking strawberries for kiwi and pineapple for melon.
One critic summed up the general sentiment: 'This taste test is poor. It's an orange. It's a carrot. It's a pineapple, not a melon. How does this prove they can cook? Silly nonsense.' Another viewer asked: 'They're showing their skills identifying basic fruit and veg?' while a third described it as 'like a kids challenge.'
The criticism extended to the overall quality, with one viewer stating: 'They have seriously dumbed down this episode.'
New Era for MasterChef
Grace Dent joins the judging panel this series alongside Anna Haugh, and will continue in her role without Torode moving forward. Dent recently expressed her admiration for Torode, telling The Sunday Times: 'I absolutely adore John Torode. He is one of the kindest, most concerned, clever, thoughtful men that I know.' She confirmed they remain friends despite his departure.
Following his dismissal, Torode took to social media to express his surprise at the decision, stating he hadn't heard directly from the BBC or production company Banijay UK. He maintained his innocence regarding the racial slur allegation, noting the enquiry couldn't specify the date or year of the alleged incident.
The BBC responded firmly, stating: 'We will not tolerate racist language of any kind and, as we have already said, we told Banijay UK, the makers of MasterChef, that action must be taken. John Torode's contract on MasterChef will not be renewed.'
Celebrity MasterChef continues airing on BBC One on weekday evenings and is available to stream on iPlayer, though the future format remains uncertain given the significant changes and viewer reactions.
