MasterChef Australia has been jam-packed with highs, lows and some mouthwatering cook-offs this season – and host Andy Allen reckons he couldn’t have got through any of it without the support of his new judging colleagues, Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin and Jean-Christophe Novelli.
“From the get-go, I knew they were going to be loved,” grins Andy, 36, who won the show himself in 2012, before going on to become a restaurateur and food critic.
“They bring different skills to the table and also have unique ways of looking at food. That goes such a long way towards developing the contestants’ knowledge and ability.”
This is the first season Andy has been a judge without Jock Zonfrillo and Melissa Leong by his side – Scottish-born chef Jock died suddenly in April 2023, while food writer Melissa moved on to new projects – but it’s a legacy he’s “most proud” of and wants to continue.
“It’s the first time I’ve really felt the pressure of the show succeeding. I was the only returning judge and I know how much hard work goes into the production of the show.
“I wanted it to be loved by everyone who watched it. MasterChef Australia has given me everything I have at home today. I’m so thankful for that. I really want home cooks to have access to that for years to come.”
With the finale on the horizon, Andy has advice for the contestants hoping to take home the $250,000 prize. “Just stay patient. Nothing I have these days came to me in the first couple of years after I won the competition. Play the long game, work hard, and also stay true to yourself. Then things will happen.”
MasterChef Australia screens 7pm Sundays and 7.30pm Monday to Wednesday on TVNZ 2 or stream now on TVNZ+.
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