BBC chef and presenter Matt Tebbutt has been confirmed as the new judge on MasterChef: The Professionals, replacing longtime host Gregg Wallace following Wallace’s dismissal from the BBC due to misconduct allegations.
Tebbutt, 51, known for presenting Saturday Kitchen on BBC One, will join returning judges Marcus Wareing, 55, and Monica Galetti, 50, for the upcoming 18th series of the competitive cooking show. The new panel will also be joined by a range of guest judges during the early stages of the competition.
Wallace, 60, who had fronted the original MasterChef, as well as its Celebrity and Professionals spin-offs, was removed from his role after an internal investigation reportedly upheld 45 of 83 misconduct allegations against him. In a public statement, Wallace said he was “deeply sorry for any distress caused” and claimed he “never set out to harm or humiliate” anyone.
Ahead of his debut, Tebbutt expressed his excitement, calling it “an absolute honour” to join the show alongside Wareing and Galetti, whom he praised as “titans of the food world.” He added, “I look forward to them taking me under their wing and seeing the chefs get off to a flying start in the competition.”
Wareing also welcomed Tebbutt, stating, “His experience both on screen and in the industry speaks for itself.” Galetti echoed the sentiment, adding, “Seeing what skills our contestants showcase and tasting their culinary creations is always a delight.”
Executive editor of MasterChef, David Ambler, said Tebbutt’s background as a chef, restaurateur, and broadcaster makes him a natural fit for the role.
Meanwhile, Wallace has since launched a new personal training business, reportedly earning around £1,000 a week. After shedding five stone in recent years, he now coaches over 20 clients, charging £250 per month, and aims to help people over 50 improve their health and confidence.
The new season of MasterChef: The Professionals is expected to air later this year.
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