Meghan Markle is set to appear as a special guest on Junior MasterChef Australia in 2027, marking the spin-off’s return to Australia after six years. The announcement comes months after the Duchess of Sussex appeared as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia, sparking mixed reactions from viewers.
Meghan Markle returning to Junior MasterChef Australia has fans talking
Meghan Markle is set to appear alongside host Poh Ling Yeow on Junior MasterChef Australia. She has been invited to “guide the next generation of young culinary talent.” While some fans have welcomed the Duchess of Sussex’s return to the franchise, others have expressed disappointment over the casting decision, arguing that local chefs and home cooks deserve the opportunity.
One user wrote on Reddit, “Her appearance on the show didn’t really go down that well in Australia. Why would they engage her again? We have so many local chefs and dedicated home cooks who publish or present. Why not RecipieTinEats? She would be amazing at a children’s cooking show. Why Meghan?”
Another commenter shared a similar opinion, writing, “Why her??? There are so many other deserving chefs out there that actually studied and learned the craft and could be a part of the program.”
However, not everyone has opposed Markle’s return. One user expressed support for the opportunity, commenting, “That actually sounds like a really wonderful opportunity. Good for Meghan.” Another offered a possible explanation for the casting choice, stating, “Because the producers believe she’ll bring in viewers. That’s pretty much always the answer.”
Markle previously shared what drew her to MasterChef Australia when she appeared as a guest judge on the cooking competition a few months ago. In a statement, she explained, “What attracted me to the MasterChef Australia kitchen? Two things: my love of food and my love of Australia. It was an easy yes. It’s such a great show. I’m just really honoured that I was asked to be able to be here with you and to be able to judge some of these meals.”
Her appearance on the show came just days before she and Prince Harry travelled to the UK for an extended stay. Now, with her upcoming role on Junior MasterChef Australia, Markle is returning to the franchise amid mixed reactions from viewers.
