Celebrity MasterChef viewers have called for John Torode to remain on the show after his final episode aired on Friday, December 19. The 20th series of the celebrity spin-off concluded with RuPaul's Drag Race star Ginger Johnson being crowned champion, defeating rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones and author-broadcaster Dawn O'Porter.
Torode, who has been a judge on the programme, was removed following an investigation into allegations that he used a racist term off-camera during production. The chef has consistently denied the claim. Grace Dent replaced Gregg Wallace earlier in the series, and Anna Haugh will take over Torode's role for the next series expected in winter 2026.
Fans took to social media to express their disappointment. One viewer said: 'John Torode's eyes welled up with tears when tasting a great main Finals dish. Who can replace Torode? No one I can think off. Get him back, don't let him go.' Another commented: 'Brilliant series of #CelebrityMasterchef Grace Dent fits very well but will be sad to no longer see John Torode at the helm.'
Despite the controversy, many praised the pairing of Torode and Dent. One fan wrote: 'I thought Grace and John were a dream team as hosts and I don't care if he did use a derogatory word whilst singing the lyrics of a rap song, he shouldn't have been made to leave.' Another added: 'Very wrong to get rid of John. Him and #GraceDent make a great pair on #celebritymasterchef . What a fantastic series this has been.'
Ginger Johnson, reflecting on her win, said: 'I cannot believe this, I'm so shocked. I really thought I was going to come here and have a laugh. I can't believe this is the end result of the competition. It's absolutely crazy!' Torode praised her: 'With all the presentation, all the fun, the laughs, her food tastes delicious and she's an extraordinary cook. For me, that's why she is our champion.'
