MasterChef: The Professionals viewers were moved to tears as Dan Merriman, a 29-year-old chef from Worcestershire, was crowned champion in an emotional final on Thursday. The winner revealed a difficult family history, including being raised by a single mother and his grandparents, and overcoming personal struggles to achieve his dream.
Dan impressed judges Marcus Wareing, Monica Galetti, and Gregg Wallace with an 'outstanding' menu that reminded them 'what good cookery is about.' Monica told him: 'You've been one of the most humble chefs I've seen walk in here. I almost feel like this has been a bit of a haven for you to rediscover your love for your craft and for yourself.'
Originally from Droitwich, Dan is the eldest of five brothers and now lives in Accrington with his partner Chloe and their baby son Ernest. He recalled his journey: 'Mum was a single parent, and we didn't have a lot but we all loved each other.' He started as a pot wash at a local hotel and fell in love with fine dining.
Dan said the competition changed his life: 'It's made me realise that I am talented. I am good at what I do.' He added: 'To walk away as MasterChef Champion, it means the world to me. There's not been that many times where I've been proud of myself in my life, but I've hit the pinnacle!'
Viewers took to social media to share their emotions, with one writing: 'What an incredibly sad but inspirational story from Dan. To go through so much pain and grief and yet come out on the other side.' Another said: 'Sobbing my eyes out at Masterchef, well deserved winner in Dan.'
