Have you been watching masterchef the professionals 2026. I think it’s the best series ever now they have finally got rid of Gregg Wallace the show has taken on a more stylish and “professional” aura.

I feel confident while ever Monica Galetti remains on board she would never allow the behaviour that got Gregg Wallace and John Torode sacked to permeate and infiltrate. She is my favourite judge on Masterchef the professionals, a little bit scary but always fair and consistent. Everything you need in a judge.

Matt Tebbutt joined MasterChef: The Professionalsas a new judge for the 18th series, which premiered in February 2026. He replaced former judge Gregg Wallace, who was dismissed following a series of misconduct allegations, joining established judges Monica Galetti and Marcus Wareing.

Now the Saturday Kitchen host has joined the lineup I think they’ve got the line up absolutely right. I don’t really understand why he only got a one season tenure. Was it a get out clause for the BBC in case the audience didn’t approve.

The reaction from us the viewers has been very favourable describing his less in your face approach as an absolute breath of fresh air.

It makes me wonder how many other presenting teams on great formats could do with a shake up. When news reader Clive Myrie took over hosting Mastermind replacing veteran journalist John Humphrys in 2021 I returned to watching one of the oldest and most successful long running formats on TV.

TV executives get stuck using the same people year in year out thinking the public won’t cope with a change and putting too much stock in presenting teams to keep the audience loyal. Personally I think it’s crazy, give someone new a chance, Matt Tebbutt has proved a new face and fresh dynamic makes things better. More talent, more gratitude and less ego make for a winning combination.

Even the contestants in this year’s Masterchef the professionals seem more relaxed and at ease. Leaning in to the tasks at hand, being guided by professional chefs who have earned their stripes and can give real tutelage.

We are now at the semi final stage, Sel from Guatemala went home last night after taking a risk that didn’t come off with his white truffle ice cream.

We think Gareth is the winner in our house, but there’s still some stiff competition from the ladies, Georgia with her Mediterranean flavours and Caroline from Brazil who seemed perfect and a judges favourite until her parfait melted last night into a creamy puddle. She struggled to remain composed, the disappointment was palpable.

There’s everything to play for with unassuming Dad of four Luke putting out some incredible plates, everyone getting better and better and Jack Black look alike from Northern Ireland John holding his own too especially when it comes to working with an open flame or at the barbecue.

For me I hope Matt Tebbut and the BBC change their minds and he’s back for at least another season. I for one am really glad to see the back of Gregg Wallace with his exaggerated fakery in favour of someone way more credible.

Personally I am delighted to see an all female lineup replacing John Torode and Gregg Wallace in food critic Grace Dent and Chef and restaurateur Anna Haugh when Masterchef for amateur cooks, series 22 returns in 2026. There has been no information released however whether the women are being paid the same money for doing the same job. I don’t need to know the amount. I’d just like to know if they are being paid less which I am assuming is likely as equivalent pay has not been mentioned.

Dates to be announced, the recommendation is keep your eyes on the radio and TV times.

After all the sexual allegations against the previous pair I think the BBC had no choice but to finally elevate and recognise women for these roles.