Meghan Markle’s MasterChef Australia Appearance Faces Harsh Criticism From Celebrity Chef

Meghan Markle’s latest television appearance has sparked fresh debate after a Michelin-trained chef delivered a scathing verdict on her role as a guest judge on MasterChef Australia. The Duchess of Sussex’s appearance has generated mixed reactions as she continues building her As Ever lifestyle brand.

The As Ever founder recently appeared on the popular cooking competition, where she joined the judging panel for a special episode. Contestants were challenged to prepare a dish they believed was “fit for a duchess.”

While the episode attracted significant attention, not everyone was impressed by Meghan’s involvement. Celebrity chef Jameson Stocks openly criticised the decision to feature the Duchess on one of the world’s best-known cooking programmes.

According to Stocks, Meghan’s appearance had more to do with attracting publicity than celebrating culinary talent. He suggested the programme was trying to boost interest by inviting a globally recognised royal figure.

The Michelin-trained chef accused the programme of abandoning its original purpose. He described the decision to feature Meghan as a disappointing move for a competition that has built its reputation around cooking excellence.

Speaking to Express UK, Stocks said MasterChef Australia had “completely sold out” by inviting Meghan Markle to appear as a guest judge.

“MasterChef has always been a beacon for showcasing great talent. I would be embarrassed,” the celebrity chef said while sharing his opinion about the episode.

Stocks also questioned Meghan’s culinary credentials, arguing that her experience did not justify a judging role on the programme. He claimed her public profile, rather than her cooking knowledge, secured the invitation.

“She is only considered to be on MasterChef because of her status,” the chef said, suggesting the producers expected her appearance to generate widespread media coverage.

“The producers know that the press will write about her and that her presence will attract viewers. They might as well put a mannequin on the show, given how little food knowledge she appears to have,” Stocks added.

The chef also criticised what he believed was the programme’s changing direction. According to him, cooking competitions should focus on showcasing genuine culinary talent and inspiring aspiring chefs.

He argued that programmes like MasterChef Australia should encourage viewers to develop new skills and step outside their comfort zones rather than rely on celebrity appearances to attract attention.

“People need to get a grip and bring genuinely talented individuals to these networks,” Stocks said. He went on to claim that Meghan “will never earn credibility within the catering industry because she simply lacks the necessary knowledge.”

Meghan’s appearance on the programme comes as she continues expanding her lifestyle brand, As Ever, while pursuing new media and entertainment projects. Despite the criticism from Jameson Stocks, her guest judging role has generated widespread discussion, ensuring the episode remains one of the most talked-about moments of the latest MasterChef Australia season.