Celebrity MasterChef 2025 line-up revealed

The Staff Canteen

The BBC has confirmed the full line-up for Celebrity MasterChef 2025, with a new judging duo and a fresh mix of contestants.

Food critic Grace Dent joins John Torode on the judging panel, marking the first major shake-up to the format in more than a decade following the departure of long-time judge Gregg Wallace.

A new chapter for MasterChef

The new season will retain its trademark format of mystery box challenges, culinary heats and elimination rounds.

John Torode and Grace Dent

The full 2025 line-up

The line-up includes Alfie Boe OBE, Alun Wyn Jones OBE, Antony Costa, Ashley Cain and Chris Hughes.

  1. Also joining the line-up are Dawn O’Porter, Gaz Choudhry MBE, Ginger Johnson, Jaki Graham, Jamie Lomas, Jodie Ounsley, Katie McGlynn, Michelle Heaton, Noreen Khan and Uma Jammeh.

  2.  

The mix of performers, athletes, presenters and entertainers marks one of the broadest line-ups yet for the show, with several contestants already teasing their competitive streak on social media.

The series is expected to follow its traditional multi-week format culminating in a final infront of a panel of industry guests.

A refreshed tone for the show

Grace Dent’s arrival is likely to shift the energy of the judging panel. Known for her sharp wit and restaurant

criticism, she is expected to bring both humour and rigour to the kitchen.

In 2024, John said: “I have loved working with Grace on MasterChef over the years. She has been an excellent guest, an inspiring critic and also set some incredible challenges. Expertise is what MasterChef is all about, from the contestants to our wonderful production team, to us as judges. The love of food, the love of MasterChef, and that unquestionable expertise, makes Grace the perfect person to step in alongside me as judge for the forthcoming Celebrity MasterChef series.”

MasterChef executive editor, David Ambler, says: “Grace’s expertise, wit and finely honed palette will be great asset to the judging lineup and the celebrities will need to be sitting up straight for this series. We’re looking forward to welcoming Grace back in 2025 as we uncover a new Celebrity MasterChef champion.”

Read more: Grace Dent to replace Gregg Wallace on MasterChef

She said: “Cooking has always been about passion, chaos and a bit of bravery. I’m excited to see what this year’s line-up brings - and who has the nerve to plate something truly memorable.”

Although an official date is yet to be announced, the upcoming series will air on BBC One and iPlayer.

written by abi kinsella

Small Contribution. Big Impact.

The Staff Canteen has always been more than a website—it’s a community, built by and for hospitality. We share the wins, the challenges, the graft, and the inspiration that keeps kitchens alive.

We believe in staying open to everyone, but creating this content takes real resources. If you’ve ever found value here—whether it’s a recipe, an interview, or a laugh when you needed it most—consider giving just £3 to keep it going.

 

A little from you keeps this space free for all. Let’s keep lifting the industry, together.

The Staff Canteen

The Staff Canteen

Editor 17th October 2025

Celebrity MasterChef 2025 line-up revealed