Meghan Markle’s upcoming appearance on Junior MasterChef Australia has prompted a petition calling for producers to reconsider her involvement. The petition questions the decision to select the Duchess of Sussex rather than Australian talent. However, the production company has confirmed that Meghan will appear as a special guest alongside chef Poh Ling Yeow when the series returns in 2027.
Meghan Markle’s Junior MasterChef Australia role sparks a petition
On Tuesday, October 27, news broke that Meghan Markle will co-host Junior MasterChef Australia alongside chef Poh Ling Yeow. The “Suits” star previously appeared as a guest judge on Australia’s main MasterChef series in April. Back then, she worked with Ling Yeow, a host on the show. The new series would reunite the duo, with filming scheduled for early-to-mid 2027 in Melbourne.
However, the decision has displeased many across the country. A fan started a petition online titled ‘Remove Meghan Markle From Junior Masterchef Australia!’ on Change.org. They wrote that the excitement to watch the show made “the potential appointment of Meghan Markle as the host of this beloved show” painful to see.
Elsewhere, the petition read, “Recent controversies and questionable actions associated with Meghan Markle cannot be overlooked. Public figures and media personalities, who hold significant influence over young audiences, should promote ethical conduct and reflect the core values we instill in our children.”
As of this writing, more than 2,400 people have signed the petition. Many questioned the decision in the comments, asking the producers to drop Markle. One supporter wrote, “This role and all similar roles in Australian TV shows should be filled by Australian talent, not imported. She has no meaning in Australia as she’s not even a working member of the Royal family; why her?”
Another wrote, “Aussie talent for Aussie shows.” A third supporter said, “The woman has no culinary credibility and there is so many home grown talents that should be in this role instead. Stunt casting at its worst.” Whether this petition will shake up the producers’ decision is unclear currently.
