From all parts of the country and all walks of life, 22 of Australia’s best home cooks are set to bring a fresh perspective to the competition on the brand new season of MasterChef Australia.
MasterChef Australia premieres Monday 22 April at 7:30 pm on 10 and 10 Play.
Andy Allen will remain as a judge on the show, joined by three new judges including alumnus Poh Ling Yeow, food critic and journalist Sofia Levin, and multi-Michelin Star award-winning chef, Jean-Christophe Novelli.
In an interview with Chattr, Andy Allen revealed he faced a “big decision” about whether to return as a Judge for season 16 of MasterChef Australia.
After the loss of Jock Zonfrillo before the season 15 premiere in 2023, returning to the famed kitchen was a daunting task, particularly because of the fierce friendship he had with his co-host and friend.
“There are a lot of feelings and there were feelings from before we began filming, to be honest,” he said.
“I actually wasn’t sure if I was going to come back. It was a really big decision for me because Jock and I were two peas in a pod and we just loved doing it [judging] with each other.”
He continued: “I’m so glad I could build up the courage to come back because I would so regret it. I would so regret that because of just what MasterChef is, and being able to fly the flag for Jock and continue on what we started with Poh [Ling Yeow], Jean-Christophe [Novelli] and Sophia [Levin] and all our new contestants, I’m so happy with how it’s turned out.”
Speaking of his new judges, Andy said that the foursome embody the “MasterChef energy”.
“The MasterChef kitchen brings out the best in whoever walks through the doors whether you’re a contestant or a judge. It’s just such a positive and energetic environment,” he said before admitting it was also “instant” with himself, Jock and Mel [Leong] and any guest chefs that walked through the doors.
“Yes, Jean-Christophe, Poh and Sofia have amazing talent, but it really is brought out on the show,” he said. “Also they’re just bloody good people and if they’re bloody good people, I know it’s gonna work.”
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 7:30 pm on 10 and 10 Play.