New-look MasterChef a hit due to ‘warmer’ judges, TV expert says
Judging by the buoyant ratings, Aussies are falling back in love with the new-look MasterChef Australia, raising questions about how the reality TV show would have fared under the old “boys club” format.
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TV experts say that MasterChef Australia wouldn’t be rating anywhere near as well if Channel 10 had kept the old “boys club” format with Matt Preston, George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan.
The ratings for this year’s refresh with new judges Melissa Leong, Jock Zonfrillo, and Andy Allen are up a whopping 50 per cent compared to last year.
It is only a matter of time before Ten announces that the show will be back in 2021. A casting call has already gone out for contestants.
Media analyst Steve Allen believes the change of judges has turned out to be a master stroke.
“The show is no longer a boys club,” Allen said.
“The new judges have shaken things up – they’re softer and warmer and have more joie de vivre (than predecessors).
“I had my doubts about whether (food writer) Melissa would have the knowledge and skills but she has absolutely proved me wrong. She holds her own with the professional chefs.
“The chemistry is between them is very good and that makes for excellent audience engagement.”
Some critics had wondered whether the trio of new judges could cut the mustard once first-week host Gordon Ramsay left the kitchen. The figures have proved them wrong.
Nationally, the current season has averaged around 1.45 million viewers per episode (seven day consolidated) – way above Ten’s expectations.
It is the number three regular series so far this year after LEGO Masters and Married at First Sight.
“We (judges) are completely blown away but the tremendous ratings and the overwhelming
support from MasterChef Australia fans,” Leong said.
“To us, their approval means the world. It is the thrill of a lifetime to be in the position we are as judges, and that’s not something we take lightly.”
Preston and Mehigan, who switched to Seven after being dumped by Ten, are waiting to film Plate of Origin. Production was shut down due to COVID-19.
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