The iconic Celebrity MasterChef is poised to make a dramatic return to BBC One, with fifteen famous contestants ready to trade their day jobs for the heat of the professional kitchen. This new season, set to premiere on Monday, November 17, arrives amidst significant changes for the long-running series.
A New Era for MasterChef
The show returns under the stewardship of new official hosts Grace Dent and Anna Haugh. This follows a major shake-up after an independent inquiry led to the removal of former co-hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace. The inquiry substantiated 45 out of 83 allegations against Wallace, which included an instance of unwanted physical contact. An accusation of Torode using racial language was also upheld.
This upcoming season, however, features pre-recorded content and will mark one of John Torode's final appearances on the programme, as he returns to his judging role alongside Dent for this last instalment.
Meet the 2025 Celebrity Contestants
The diverse line-up features a mix of stars from the worlds of music, sport, television, and social media, all vying to succeed last year's champion, Strictly Come Dancing professional Vito Coppola.
Alfie Boe OBE: The acclaimed English actor and singer, famous for his West End roles and currently starring in a national tour of Les Misérables.
Alun Wyn Jones OBE: The legendary Welsh former rugby union player, who is the most capped rugby player in history and was recently appointed an honorary colonel by King Charles III.
Antony Costa: A former member of the chart-topping boy band Blue, who has also built a career on the stage.
Ashley Cain: A former professional footballer turned adventurous TV presenter, known for his daring documentary series.
Chris Hughes: The Love Island star and reality TV regular, who will be hoping his cooking skills create as much buzz as his personal life.
Dawn O’Porter: The Scottish writer and documentary filmmaker, married to actor Chris O'Dowd.
Gaz Choudhry MBE: A retired Paralympian from the Team GB wheelchair basketball squad, who has since moved into acting.
Ginger Johnson: The reigning champion of Drag Race UK season five, bringing her winning streak and vibrant personality to the kitchen.
Jaki Graham: The celebrated singer behind numerous hits and the first black British female solo artist to achieve six consecutive Top 20 hits.
Jamie Lomas: A well-known soap actor from Hollyoaks and EastEnders, described by sources as a competitive and competent cook.
Jodie Ounsley: The professional athlete better known as Fury from the rebooted Gladiators series and a former rugby player.
Katie McGlynn: The soap star recognised for her roles in Coronation Street and Waterloo Road.
Michelle Heaton: The Liberty X singer and Brit Award winner, who has been praised for her openness about her journey through addiction.
Noreen Khan: The versatile TV host, stand-up comedian, and BBC Asian Network presenter.
Uma Jammeh: A popular TikTok content creator and reality TV personality from Love Island season 11.
What to Expect This Season
With a fresh hosting team and a line-up packed with talent and competitive spirit, this season promises high drama and culinary triumphs. The contestants will face intense challenges as they strive to impress the judges and claim the coveted Celebrity MasterChef title.
Celebrity MasterChef returns to BBC One on Monday, November 17 at 8pm.
