MasterChef women ‘reconfirm their place in the food world’: Judge Melissa Leong

It’s down to the final two Favourites on MasterChef, and judge Melissa Leong says the result shows strong women are “reconfirming their place in the food world”.

Seeing two women in the finale of MasterChef is a sign that the hospitality industry is evolving says judge Melissa Leong.

After 61 episodes and months of filming, Favourites and former winner Billie McKay and Sarah Todd will go head to head to be crowned Australia’s MasterChef on Tuesday night.

“It’s been a great story seeing these strong women reconfirm their place in the food world,” said Leong.

“We are seeing the hospitality industry evolve so much and these women are inspiring future generations.”

Leong herself is changing the nature of television, recently becoming the first woman of Asian women to be nominated for a Gold Logie.

Melissa Leong says the industry of hospitality is changing, leaning towards women. Picture: Justin Lloyd

“It was an honour to be in the class of people and while I stood alone, it’s a sign again that change is on its way,” she said.

Controversy surrounded the nomination when a group publicity photo emerged of all the nominees, bar Leong.

At the time it was taken, Leong was in Tasmania filming MasterChef and couldn’t be in the photo. However that didn’t stop some on social media questioning her absence.

“This show is my priority and I couldn’t miss finale week. It was a shame I couldn’t be there but what I would say is, with all this, I’m here now. And just watch me grow!”

MasterChef Australia co-host and judge Melissa Leong, in Surry Hills on 11 July, 2022. Picture: Justin Lloyd

Despite its lengthy season, MasterChef been proven to be a ratings success for Channel 10.

The show, which this year saw past favourites face off against newcomers, has been building in the ratings since its launch back in April. It is consistently the number one entertainment program on free to air.

Leong is also hoping Channel 10 will pick up Dinner Guest, a pilot talk show she has filmed with Narelda Jacobs and Susan Carland.

“It’s the kind of panel show we need in this country.

“There are so many faces and stories that are inadequately represented and this is a way to do that in an intelligent and entertaining way. I’m proud to be standing alongside those women,” she said.