A familiar face in the culinary world is stepping into a high-profile British television role, as Michelin-starred chef Giorgio Locatelli is confirmed as a new judge on Celebrity MasterChef.
The announcement places the Italian chef at the centre of the upcoming 21st series of the BBC’s celebrity cooking competition.
Locatelli will join food critic Grace Dent on the judging panel, evaluating celebrities as they battle through a series of timed cooking challenges.
The series has already been filmed, with anticipation building ahead of its broadcast.
Veteran Michelin-Star Chef Brings Strict Kitchen Standards to BBC Series
At 63, Locatelli is already well known in food television circles, having previously judged the Italian version of the MasterChef franchise.
His move to the UK version marks a new chapter in his broadcasting career and further strengthens his presence in international culinary media.
Speaking on the Table Manners with Jessie and Lennie Ware podcast, Locatelli described his judging style in blunt terms, admitting he takes a tough approach in the kitchen.
“I think I was a bad cop,” he said, adding that he is “strict” particularly when it comes to cleanliness, organisation, and basic kitchen discipline.
He explained that these foundational skills are often what he focuses on correcting first.
Celebrities Face Pressure Test as Cooking Skills Meet Time Constraints
Discussing the dynamic of working with celebrities rather than aspiring chefs, Locatelli said the experience offers a different kind of insight.
According to him, while participants already have success in other fields, many still struggle with the pressures of cooking under strict time limits.
He observed that contestants from entertainment backgrounds often find time management challenging, while athletes tend to perform better under pressure due to their structured routines.
“The sportspeople always hit the time,” he noted, contrasting them with more creatively driven participants.
Despite the competition format, Locatelli said he was impressed by the progress of the contestants, highlighting moments where individuals surprised him positively during filming.
BBC Shake-Up Follows Controversy and Judge Changes in MasterChef Franchise
Locatelli’s arrival comes during a period of notable changes within the MasterChef franchise.
The BBC has recently reshuffled its judging lineup following controversy involving former presenter John Torode, who was removed after allegations of inappropriate language upheld in a formal investigation.
Grace Dent previously stepped in following the departure of Gregg Wallace, who was also dismissed amid misconduct allegations connected to his time on the show.
These changes have contributed to a significant reshaping of the programme’s on-screen leadership.
Celebrity MasterChef Continues Tradition of High-Stakes Cooking Competition
The format of Celebrity MasterChef remains unchanged, with well-known figures from entertainment, sport, and other industries competing through multiple cooking rounds.
Contestants are gradually eliminated until one finalist is crowned champion.
Recent winners include choreographer and dancer Vito Coppola, who won in 2024, followed by RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner Ginger Johnson—real name Donald Marshall—who took the title in 2025.
From Michelin Star to Cultural Landmark: Locatelli Expands London Presence
Beyond television, Locatelli continues to expand his culinary footprint in the UK.
After the closure of his Michelin-starred restaurant Locanda Locatelli in December 2024, he launched a new dining concept in London.
His latest venture, Locatelli at The National Gallery, opened in May 2025 near Trafalgar Square.
The restaurant offers modern Italian cuisine inspired by traditional roots, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and refined presentation.
Described by The National Gallery as a “casually sophisticated setting,” the restaurant combines food and culture in an artistic environment, offering guests pasta dishes, desserts, Italian wines, and curated cocktails within one of London’s most iconic cultural spaces.
