MasterChef’s youngest contestant bids cold farewell with heartbreaking no hug exit
With new social distancing measures in place on MasterChef, the show’s youngest contestant Jess Liemantara faced a cold elimination. This is why the much-loved contestant found it so hard.
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Masterchef’s youngest contestant Jess Liemantara says it was heartbreaking not being able to hug anyone when she left the competition.
With new social distancing measures in place for filming due to COVID-19, Lietmantara faced a cold elimination.
“It was very hard,’’ the 22 year-old said.
“I think I was the first contestant to not hug anyone in the elimination. Because I’m so affectionate and enjoy a high five or a hug, it was heartbreaking not to have any of those gestures.
“It probably was more heartbreaking not being able to give a hug than being eliminated. It was sad.”
Liemantara was much loved for her kindness to other contestants.
She said it was special to be part of Thursday’s immunity challenge with four other Asian contestants, Khanh, Brendan, Poh and Reynold.
“It’s the first series I’ve felt the Asian community has been represented so much on television,’’ she said.
“To have that moment was very very cool. To have such a diverse Asian culture and other cultures as well to share what we’re like growing up is so amazing and it’s so nostalgic.”
Liemantara said she was excited for the next step in her food journey.
“Food has always been the centre of attention for me since I was nine,’’ she said.
“Being born in a family with restaurants and cafes I always wanted to follow that and my parents have been very supportive as well.”
She also praised the new trio of judges, Melissa Leong, Jock Zonfrillo and Andy Allen.
“They were phenomenal. From start to finish, they were amazing.
“It’s refreshing to have a new set of judges. Melissa’s words are beautiful, Jock is strong and passionate and Andy is really cruisy and they’re all doing an amazing job.”