A MasterChef Australia insider has revealed that Channel Ten had its eye on new judge Poh Ling Yeow since 2019.
The former contestant was considered as a replacement for outgoing judges Matt Preston, George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan when they were fired that year.
“Boardroom talks began with a dream team of judges who would work well together and Poh was safely on that list,” the source said. Yahoo.
However, plans were put on ice and producers were reportedly interested in Poh and former winner Julie Goodwin returning for the Back to Win celebrity season.
The hiatus allowed Poh to gain more television experience, as well as his appearance on other shows.
A MasterChef Australia insider has revealed that Channel Ten had its eye on new judge Poh Ling Yeow since 2019.
“We supported her for Back to Win, which was a great TV moment,” the source continued.
“He got to do I’m A Celebrity and had an amazing opportunity to host a show with Snackmasters.”
Poh joined the new line-up following the departure of Melissa Leong and the death of Jock Zonfrillo.
Andy Allen has returned to the Channel Ten cooking show alongside some new faces in a panel shake-up.
MasterChef’s Andy Allen has returned as a judge alongside some new faces in a panel shake-up. He is joined by celebrity French chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, Melbourne-based food critic Sofia Levin and MasterChef season one runner-up Poh Ling Yeow. Everything in the photo
The new judges replace outgoing judge Melissa Leong (left), who left the show, and Jock Zonfrillo (centre), who tragically died last year.
He is joined by celebrity French chef Jean-Christophe Novelli, Melbourne-based food critic Sofia Levin and MasterChef season one runner-up Poh.
They replace outgoing judge Melissa Leong and Jock Zonfrillo, who tragically passed away last year.
When season 16 premiered earlier this month, the new lineup has received mixed reactions on social media, with many fans turning to X to weigh in on his skills as a judge.
“It feels weird without Mel and Jock but I’m looking forward to these new judges,” one commented.
“I love Poh…she’s my favorite contestant on that show,” another added.
Another agreed: ‘Living for Poh’s chaotic energy. So happy he’s back on my screen!’
The former contestant was considered a replacement for outgoing judges Matt Preston, George Calombaris and Gary Mehigan when they were fired in 2019.