New Season of MasterChef Australia Set to Premiere in 2026
MasterChef Australia is set to return with a brand-new season in 2026, bringing together an impressive panel of judges including Andy Allen, Poh Ling Yeow, Sofia Levin, and Jean-Christophe Novelli. With such a talented group of culinary experts, the competition is expected to be more intense than ever. However, only one contestant will ultimately claim the title of MasterChef.
The show has already introduced its lineup of contestants, each vying for the chance to win the prestigious title. For those eager to catch up on previous episodes, detailed recaps are available for every episode. The first elimination is scheduled for 27 April, marking the beginning of a thrilling journey for the remaining competitors.
Watch the latest episodes of MasterChef Australia on Channel Ten and 10play.
Contestants Who Have Been Eliminated
Megs Steel – 40, QLD
Megan “Megs” Steel was the first contestant to leave the MasterChef Australia kitchen this season. In the initial elimination challenge, participants were asked to create a dish that reflected their home life. Megs, known for her love of cooking for others and serving generous meals, faced a setback when her dish proved to be undercooked and inedible.
Her grilled prawns, which required precise oven temperatures at different stages, ended up being undercooked. This led to her elimination from the competition. Despite the disappointment, Megs expressed gratitude for the experience, calling it everything she hoped for and more.
“I really want to thank you all, it was everything I hoped and a million times more,” Megs said during her elimination. She described feeling heartbroken but also extremely grateful for the opportunity. While being the first to go home was tough, there’s hope that Megs will continue to make her mark in the culinary world.
Jeff Lam – 47, VIC
Jeff Lam was the second contestant to be eliminated from the MasterChef Australia kitchen in a pressure test orchestrated by renowned home cook Maggie Beer AO. Jeff had applied for MasterChef multiple times over the years, earning the nickname “MasterJeff” from his friends.
His passion for baking often led him to focus too much on perfecting the appearance of his dishes, which ultimately affected the outcome. During the challenge, he spent excessive time scoring the top of his pie, leaving it insufficiently baked in the oven. This mistake cost him his place in the competition.
Despite his elimination, Jeff remained positive, stating, “I’m proud of what I achieved.” He also emphasized that his journey with MasterChef was just beginning, saying, “You will always be a MasterJeff.”
What to Expect in the Upcoming Episodes
As the competition progresses, viewers can expect even more challenges that test the skills, creativity, and resilience of the remaining contestants. Each episode promises new twists, unexpected eliminations, and unforgettable moments in the kitchen.
For those interested in following the action, keep an eye out for updates and recaps of each episode. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the show, MasterChef Australia continues to deliver exciting culinary adventures.
Behind the Scenes and Personal Stories
Throughout the season, the show has also highlighted personal stories of the contestants, offering a deeper insight into their lives and motivations. From family ties to career aspirations, each chef brings a unique perspective to the competition.
One of the standout moments came when Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, joined Jimmy Barnes and Robert Irwin as guest judges for the 2026 season. Her presence added an extra layer of excitement and anticipation for fans.
Final Thoughts
With the first two contestants eliminated, the stage is set for the next round of challenges. As the competition heats up, the remaining chefs will need to showcase their skills, adaptability, and determination to stay in the game.
Whether you’re watching for the recipes, the drama, or the sheer talent on display, MasterChef Australia promises to deliver another unforgettable season.
