The BBC has confirmed that Saturday Kitchen presenter Matt Tebbutt will be replacing Gregg Wallace as judge on MasterChef: The Professionals.
Rumours have been circulating that Tebutt would replace Wallace after he was sacked from the show following a series of misconduct allegations on the set of MasterChef. More than 50 allegations were made against the judge, including reports of groping and indecent exposure.
Tebbutt will join existing judges Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti for the 18th series of the cooking programme. The three with also be joined by a range of guest judges in the first stage of the competition.
Speaking about his new role, Tebbutt said it's an ‘absolute honour’ to be working alongside Wareing and Galetti. ‘Their knowledge and uncompromising attitude is now the stuff of legend and I look forward to them taking me under their wing, and seeing the chefs get off to a flying start in the competition.’
Wareing also expressed his excitement about working alongside Tebbutt. ‘I’m really looking forward to working with Matt and his experience, both on screen and in the industry, speaks for itself.
‘This show is all about showcasing and celebrating the best up-and-coming talent emerging from our country’s professional kitchens, and Matt, Monica and I will be expecting the highest standards from our chefs this year. I can’t wait for what will be a fantastic next series.’
While Galetti said: ‘To have Matt join us is really exciting. Seeing what skills our contestants showcase and tasting their culinary creations is always a delight – Marcus and I look forward to welcoming Matt to the MasterChef studios and discovering our next champion.’
Matt Tebbutt is best known for his role as host of BBC One’s Saturday Kitchen, as well as Channel 4’s Food Unwrapped. He also boasts a wealth of experience in the restaurant industry, having worked at the likes of the Oak Room Marco Pierre White, The Criterion in London and Chez Bruce, and has authored three cookbooks.
MasterChef: The Professionals will air on BBC one, with an official launch date yet to be confirmed.
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