Meghan Markle’s Australia Comeback Hit by Backlash as Locals Question Her MasterChef Role

Meghan Markle’s highly anticipated return to Australian television is already facing an uncomfortable reception, with some Melbourne residents questioning why the Duchess of Sussex was chosen for Junior MasterChef Australia instead of a professional Australian chef.

The Duchess recently announced that she was excited to join chef Poh Ling Yeow on the popular cooking competition, which is expected to begin filming in early to mid-2027.

The opportunity appeared to be an exciting development for Meghan, who previously enjoyed an appearance connected to the MasterChef Australia franchise.

However, the announcement has prompted mixed reactions among people in Melbourne, according to comments gathered by The Express.

Some residents questioned the decision to bring Meghan on board, arguing that Australia has plenty of talented chefs who could take on the judging role.

One person openly admitted they were not impressed by the choice and said they would support a petition calling for Meghan to be replaced.

“I’m not really a fan. I would sign the petition,” the resident reportedly said.

Another person offered a much harsher assessment, questioning Meghan’s cooking credentials and suggesting that her royal connections were behind the opportunity.

“I hate her. She thinks she is a chef. Somebody had paid for her to come. She just wants money. She is there only trading on royalty, which she is no longer,” the individual said.

The criticism was not limited to younger residents. A 76-year-old woman named Rosa also questioned why the Duchess had been selected for the programme.

“I think it’s a joke. Why do we need her?” she said.

Rosa argued that the production should have considered an Australian personality instead, adding that she was not a fan of Meghan’s involvement.

Her comments reflected one side of the public reaction, with some people believing the programme should prioritise local talent and professional cooking experience.

However, not everyone shared that view. Other residents defended the decision, suggesting Meghan’s celebrity profile could attract additional attention to the competition.

One supporter argued that television programmes are not necessarily limited to choosing judges solely on their professional cooking backgrounds.

“My thought is it’s a name that grabs people’s attention. There’s more than just a chef’s perspective on food,” the person explained.

Another resident dismissed the controversy surrounding a possible petition, suggesting viewers who disliked the choice could simply decide not to support the programme.

The mixed response demonstrates that Meghan’s appointment has generated discussion even before filming begins, although the comments gathered by The Express represent individual opinions rather than a wider measurement of Australian public sentiment.

For Meghan, the new role offers another opportunity to expand her television career and connect with audiences beyond the United States and Britain.

Whether the criticism will affect the programme remains unclear, but the Duchess is already attracting attention ahead of her expected return to Australian screens.