Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, will appear as a guest judge on an upcoming episode of "MasterChef Australia," Network 10 confirmed. The episode, scheduled to air on Sunday, July 26, will feature Markle participating in a challenge focused on seasonal ingredients and the personal stories behind them.
Network 10 described Markle as “an entrepreneur, humanitarian and passionate home cook” in a press release. The show's producers stated that she would bring "her love of food, entertaining and seasonal produce" to the competition. Markle herself expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, citing her "love of food and my love of Australia" as reasons for her participation. She added that she was "honoured" to be asked to judge the meals.
During the episode, contestants are tasked with creating a "dish fit for a Duchess" using ingredients such as carrots, Jerusalem artichokes, Brussels sprouts, celeriac, Australian honey, macadamia nuts, quince, lemons, apples, mandarins, and strawberries. They are encouraged to highlight seasonal produce and share personal anecdotes.
Markle's appearance on the cooking show, filmed during her and Prince Harry's tour of Australia in April, has already generated controversy online. In the comments section of Network 10's Instagram announcement, some viewers vowed to boycott the episode, with one commenter stating, "I love watching Master Chef, but won’t be watching it with her." Another user pointed out that Markle "is not a chef."
Some fans also questioned Network 10's use of the title "Duchess" for Markle, noting her and Prince Harry's departure from royal duties in 2020. However, Markle retains the title of Duchess of Sussex, granted by Queen Elizabeth II upon her marriage to Prince Harry in 2018.
Conversely, other viewers expressed support for Markle's guest judging role. Comments included "I love this for her… she is working and finding opportunities for herself" and "Can’t wait to see her."
This television appearance comes after Markle's Netflix show "With Love, Meghan" was canceled after two seasons due to low ratings. Her lifestyle brand, As Ever, also recently saw the streaming service cut ties. Despite these setbacks, Netflix continues to collaborate with the Sussexes on other projects, including adaptations of several books.