Anna Haugh confirmed to join MasterChef UK alongside Grace Dent

Irish chef and culinary star Anna Haugh has confirmed she is joining the judging panel of the main MasterChef UK series, replacing Gregg Wallace alongside fellow new appointee Grace Dent.

Two Women Judge the Kitchen

The report from The Sun reveals that Grace Dent, renowned food critic, and Anna Haugh, 44, have been chosen over familiar faces like Monica Galetti and Marcus Wareing.

The choice marks a landmark moment: for the first time in the show’s history, two female judges will lead the way, shaking up the traditionally male-dominated MasterChef landscape.

Industry insiders say the decision wasn’t simple. “It’s really exciting that two women are judging the show… Grace and Anna have brilliant chemistry. They know it’s a big responsibility and can’t wait to deliver for the fans,” a TV source shared with The Sun.

Who’s Anna Haugh?

Hailing from Dublin and now based in London, Anna Haugh is not new to MasterChef fans. She stepped in for Gregg Wallace during the final episodes of the most recent season, and previously

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judged MasterChef: The Professionals in 2022.

Gregg and John exit amid controversy

The change in the judging line-up comes after a turbulent year for the MasterChef brand. Gregg was dismissed in July following the conclusion of an independent inquiry conducted by an independent law firm, commissioned by production company Banijay.

The investigation upheld 45 allegations against Wallace, including inappropriate comments, unwelcome physical contact, and an incident involving a state of undress. One separate complaint also confirmed Gregg used a severely offensive racist term against co-presenter John Torode, though John has said he had “no recollection” of the remark.

Gregg apologised, saying he was “deeply sorry for any distress” caused but insisted he had “never set out to harm or humiliate anyone.”

Both pesenters have now been dropped from the wider MasterChef franchise.

written by abi kinsella

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