Poh Ling Yeow, a co-star of Meghan Markle in the upcoming "MasterChef Junior Australia," has voiced her support for the Duchess of Sussex, characterizing Markle's casting as the "ultimate clapback" to earlier reports of on-set friction.
Yeow, 52, defended Markle, 45, in a conversation with "Pedestrian TV" on Wednesday. "Eat that, people," Yeow quipped when discussing the project. She further praised Markle for possessing a "will of steel" when facing criticism from what Yeow described as "insatiable and horrible" detractors.
"I just have even more admiration for her," Yeow stated. She acknowledged that the aftermath of their previous collaboration on "MasterChef Australia," which filmed in April and aired in July, was "really crazy" to navigate. Yeow noted that "rumors just follow" the "Suits" alum, and while some of it affected her indirectly, she found it manageable.
Speculation surrounding Markle's casting has been intense, with some social media users dismissing Yeow's comments as "corporate speak" due to contractual obligations. Others, however, have applauded Yeow for supporting Markle.
Page Six confirmed on Tuesday that Yeow and Markle would reunite for "MasterChef Junior Australia," with Markle securing a "special guest" role. In a press release, Markle expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating that it was an "easy yes." She added, "I love cooking with my own kids, [Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet], so seeing what these young stars create in the kitchen is going to be a lot of fun. I can’t wait to see what they cook up!"
Yeow also expressed anticipation for their reunion, describing it as a "real treat" and recalling that they had a "lovely time" working together previously. These sentiments contrast with a summer report from SkyNews suggesting that Markle and Yeow had clashed during the filming of "MasterChef Australia." The earlier report cited a misunderstanding over Markle being referred to as "royalty." However, an insider told Page Six at the time that the duo "had a great time" on set and that there was "no frustration on Meghan’s side about anything that was said on set."
The exact air date for Yeow and Markle's "MasterChef Junior Australia" appearance has not yet been announced, but episodes are slated for release in 2027.
Markle is currently traveling with her husband, Prince Harry, and their children. Their trip coincides with a period of increased media scrutiny following an investigation into Meghan's father, Thomas Markle Sr., for alleged possession of child pornography. Thomas Markle Sr. has denied these allegations. Meghan Markle stated in a released statement that the claims were "deeply distress[ing]" and shed light on her estrangement from her father and her decision to limit his contact with their children.