A popular Gogglebox star has become the leading contender to replace John Torode on MasterChef following his sacking from the show. In a shocking announcement, the BBC confirmed it would not be renewing the 59-year-old’s contract after a historic racism accusation — which the Australian chef denies and claims to have no memory of — was upheld following an independent investigation related to John’s co-host, Gregg Wallace.
The bombshell news came after Gregg Wallace, 60, was also axed from MasterChef after an investigation into his behaviour. The legal report, conducted by Lewis Silkin, revealed that 45 out of 83 accusations against the father-of-three were corroborated — most involving inappropriate sexual language and humour.
In the wake of both hosts’ departures, Gogglebox and Great British Menu star, Andi Oliver, has emerged as the favourite to join MasterChef.
According to Whataretheodds.co.uk, Andi now leads the betting at 5/2 (28.6%). Known for her upbeat energy and authority on Great British Menu, Andi’s culinary credibility has positioned her as a top pick among both fans and bookmakers. She would also make history as the first Black woman to present the show.
The betting markets have shifted quickly since John and Gregg were dropped, with odds analyst Dave James telling the Mirror that another celebrity chef is also in the race.
He said: “Andi Oliver remains the market leader, but Tom Kerridge is attracting a lot of support. His profile is huge, and he’s one of the most trusted names in British food. This could come down to what direction the BBC wants – prestige, relatability, or a bit of both.”
Tom Kerridge, whose odds are 3/1 (25%), is a well-known chef with multiple restaurants, a host of BBC series, and a reputation for blending fine dining with everyday appeal — and he’s also known for the £37 fish and chips at Harrod’s.
Other strong contenders include Poppy O’Toole, a rising star on TikTok and in modern food media, with odds at 4/1 (20%); Angela Hartnett at 5/1 (16.7%); and Great British Bake Off winner, Nadiya Hussain, at 6/1 (14.3%).
Further down the list are familiar TV names like James Martin and Grace Dent, who co-hosted Celebrity MasterChef with John when Gregg stepped down amid the investigation.
Other names still in the mix include Nigella Lawson, Marcus Wareing, and even John’s wife, Lisa Faulkner, as the future of MasterChef remains uncertain.
A strong contender for the role is Saturday Kitchen star, Matt Tebbutt, who’s believed to have already secured the job fronting MasterChef: The Professionals.
Back in March, when Gregg stepped down, Matt played it coy when asked about hosting MasterChef alongside John — before John’s dismissal — telling Muddy Stilettos: “Well, there’s always rumours, but it would be a great gig for sure!”
