Master Chef star Matt Tebbutt breaks silence over reports he was 'axed' from BBC show
The chef reassured fans he was only ever doing one series on the popular cooking show
www.gbnews.comMatt Tebbutt has announced that he is not returning as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals for the next series; he says his involvement was always intended to be a one-series arrangement, and he plans to continue working with MasterChef in some capacity. This confirms he’s leaving the judging panel after series 18.[1][3][4]
Details and context
- Source reports indicate Tebbutt was positioned as a one-series host/judge rather than a long-term member, with producers preferring the Marcus Wareing–Monica Galetti duo for the main judging dynamic. Tebbutt himself emphasized that his role was not meant to be permanent and that he enjoyed the experience.[1]
- Tebbutt subsequently addressed the departure publicly, explaining that he was always committed to a single series and would continue collaborating with the MasterChef franchise in some capacity. This helps explain the timing and rationale behind his exit.[4]
What happens next
- The show’s judging lineup may shift to focus on Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti, potentially with guest judges or new regulars filling Tebbutt’s former role. This pattern aligns with Tebbutt’s statements about the intended one-series involvement and ongoing collaboration.[3][1]
- Tebbutt’s post-exit projects or new roles within MasterChef or other BBC/food-branded programs are reported in subsequent coverage, indicating a continued presence in the broader MasterChef universe rather than a full retirement from television.[6][3]
Illustrative takeaway
- If you’re tracking MasterChef: The Professionals’ future format, expect a tighter judging duo and possible guest appearances or new judges introduced to fill the gap Tebbutt left. The official line has been that Tebbutt’s exit is part of a planned, limited-term involvement rather than a sudden axing.[1]
Citations
- Matt Tebbutt to leave MasterChef: The Professionals[1]
- MasterChef host responds to reports he was axed[4]
- Matt Tebbutt breaks silence on his future on MasterChef The Professionals exit[3]