Fifteen new stars from the worlds of music, drama, comedy, and sport are set to compete in the 2026 season of Celebrity MasterChef, the BBC has announced. The upcoming series will see a new judging panel, with Italian chef Giorgio Locatelli joining Grace Dent. Locatelli, a Michelin-starred restaurateur, will replace John Torode.
Over five weeks, Locatelli and Dent will challenge the contestants through a series of culinary tests. The winner will succeed the 2025 champion, Ginger Johnson of RuPaul's Drag Race.
The diverse lineup includes Olympic Medallist Emily Campbell, 32, who stated she has always been a fan of the show and wants to challenge herself in the culinary space. TV and radio presenter Jason Mohammad, 52, joins with a passion for feeding people and cherishing memories tied to food. Musician, actor, and author Jay McGuiness, 36, is participating after seeing his The Wanted bandmates enjoy the show. Comedian and actor Joe Pasquale, 64, expressed his love for challenges and stepping out of his comfort zone, hoping to gain confidence as a chef.
Reality star and influencer Shakira Khan, 23, aims to learn new recipes and make her family proud. Actress and comedian Donna Preston, 40, described competing as a dream and is eager to learn and work under pressure. TV Gladiator Emily Steel, 23, known as Dynamite, enjoys experimenting with recipes and focusing on presentation. Presenter and former Royal Ballet dancer Eric Underwood, 42, hopes to change the perception of ballet dancers and food, embracing a 'farm to table' approach at his home.
Actor Nitin Ganatra, 59, is competing in honor of his mother, a renowned cook, and has recently focused on healthier vegetarian cooking. YouTuber and comedian Tom Simons, 22, also known as TommyInnit, is excited for his first major TV show appearance and aims to create basic but creative meals. Paralympic athlete Lauren Steadman, 33, known for her high-level sports competition, seeks to push her boundaries and build cooking confidence. YouTuber and comedian Max Fosh, 31, who has created unconventional food videos, wants to learn a new skill. DJ and presenter Melvin Odoom, 46, aims to showcase and improve his cooking skills, likening his approach to his DJing style, performing for the audience. Actor and Loose Women star Sue Cleaver, 62, is participating to learn and see if her cooking skills are as good as others say. Singer Una Healy, 44, is joining to learn about food and challenge herself.
The new season of Celebrity MasterChef is set to premiere later this year on BBC One and iPlayer.