The highly anticipated return of MasterChef 2026 on BBC One has already stirred up controversy. After the shocking exit of long-time hosts John Torode and Gregg Wallace, MasterChef has introduced two fresh faces to take the reins: Anna Haugh and Grace Dent. But not everyone is happy with the change.
While some viewers have praised the new all-female duo, with one writing, “Grace and Anna are a big thumbs up from me! Great start to the new series,” others have voiced their discontent. The criticism mainly revolves around Anna’s frequent “surprised” facial expressions, with one viewer tweeting, “Why do those two presenters keep making such stupid faces?” Another chimed in with, “I can’t watch MasterChef any longer. @Anahaugh and her daft facial expressions.”
Despite the mixed reviews, some fans are still on board, acknowledging the new energy the judges bring to the show. “Anna and Grace make a good team,” added one fan, hoping the judges’ “over-exuberance” will calm down as the series progresses.
The new series airs across three nights on BBC One (Credit: BBC)
The shake-up follows the departures of Torode and Wallace, who were both removed after separate controversies. But while the new judges are bringing a fresh dynamic, MasterChef fans are clearly divided.
Catch the latest episode of MasterChef 2026 tonight (April 22) at 9 PM on BBC One, and stream all episodes now on BBC iPlayer. Will the new judges grow on the audience or will the show lose its flavor?
