MasterChef Australia 2024 is looking a little bit different with three fresh faces joining Andy Allen on the judging panel this year: Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli.
As runner-up in the first-ever season of MasterChef Australia, there’s a part of Ling Yeow that will always belong on the contestant side – bringing a different perspective to mentorship for this year’s home cooks.
Levin is known for her deep knowledge of the culinary world inside and out. Having dedicated her life to eating, she can’t resist a moreish morsel and has the vocab to match her insatiable appetite.
Novelli is a French-born, multi-Michelin star-awarded chef and his years of expertise and leadership make him a true cooking extraordinaire.
Last April, judge Jock Zonfrillo passed away aged 46 just before the last season was set to air. In October, the day before Ten’s upfront in October, it was revealed judge Melissa Leong would not be returning to the format in 2024, with only Allen remaining as part of the new four-judge lineup.
The 2024 season will see the cast and crew return to Hong Kong for the first time since season one in 2009, 15 years ago. The cooking show will film three episodes in the culinary hot spot, which is home to 77 Michelin-starred restaurants and over 15,000 dining establishments.
MasterChef Australia will be travelling to the city in association with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and Cathay Pacific Airways.
“I’ve never been to Hong Kong, but I’ve been really interested in the place for a long time,” Allen said. “That’s because I see the city’s array of food is off the charts: it’s a melting pot of different cultures, bold flavours, and one-of-a-kind ingredients.”
MasterChef Australia is produced by Endemol Shine Australia (a Banijay company). The format was created by Franc Roddam and represented internationally by Banijay Rights.
MasterChef Australia premieres Monday 22 April at 7:30pm on 10 and 10 Play.