Matt Tebbutt has addressed reports that he has been dropped as a presenter on MasterChef: The Professionals after appearing on just one series. The Saturday Kitchen host, 52, joined the BBC cooking competition for its 18th series, stepping in after Gregg Wallace’s departure and presenting alongside judges Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti.
Reports on Tuesday suggested Tebbutt would not return for the next instalment after producers decided the programme worked better with two hosts rather than three. An insider added that Tebbutt’s exit was not linked to any issues with his performance and that he could still appear on the show in the future. “He didn't do anything wrong and will definitely come back to the series as a guest in the future,” the source said.
Responding to the reports, Tebbutt took to Instagram to share a statement clarifying that he was only signed up to present one series of the professional instalment. “A lot of lovely people have contacted me about not doing the next series of MasterChef: The Professionals,” he wrote. “I was only ever doing one series and I loved judging on it and will continue working with MasterChef.”
A BBC spokesperson said: “No decisions have been made yet about the presenting line up for the future series of MasterChef. We won't comment on speculation.” The reports come shortly after Tebbutt made his debut on the programme, with viewers largely welcoming his arrival. During the series premiere, Wareing introduced Tebbutt to the competition, telling contestants: “Good to see you both, new competition, new kitchen and we have a new judge, welcome Matt!”
Viewers took to social media to share their thoughts on the new line-up, with several praising Tebbutt’s presence. One wrote: “Glad MasterChef The Professionals is back. Matt seems to fit in as the new judge.” Another commented: “Matt Tebbutt is fab.” Ahead of the programme’s launch, Tebbutt had spoken enthusiastically about his experience filming the series alongside Wareing and Galetti, saying: “It's been a joy. I've loved every minute and these two next to me have been so supportive.”
