Andy Allen was missing from last night’s episode of MasterChef Australia 2026 because his pregnant wife Alex Allen was giving birth to their son, Jude Jackson Allen.
“I’ve got some great news, Andy won’t be joining us today, because his wife Alex is having their first baby,” Jean-Christophe Novelli informed the contestants during the episode.
But while Andy may have been missing last night, the season is filmed way in advance, so their son actually arrived back on April 13, 2026.
Shortly after the birth, Jean-Christophe shared his excitement for Andy and Alex on their new bundle of joy.
“From where I am, I see they are clearly going to both be doting parents. It is always great news when there is a newborn baby. Especially when it is your first one!” he told Chattr.
“I am a very proud dad and this is the only thing that makes me tick in life, to be part of a family. Watching them both create an amazing recipe reminds me of my position 40 years ago with my very first child, my beautiful daughter Christina, who I am extremely proud of!”
Annabel shares an update on how ‘dad life’ is going for Andy
Although Andy was busy with his new family the night of Annabel’s elimination, she told Chattr she’s spoken to him since leaving MasterChef, and said that he loves being a dad.
“He’s reached out, he’s killing it,” she said. “He’s doing dad life, and then he’s balancing so many things in his job. He just opened up that sandwich shop in Sydney, and he’s the guy that can do it all. He really can.
“So I think he’s going awesome [with his new son]. His baby is so, so cute!”
Annabel is, of course, referring to the Florence sandwich shop All’Antico Vinaio. His involvement started two years ago when he posted photos of the sandwiches there, and he was approached to become a business partner with Jonny Stewart and Ali Mattar of Fladgate Hospitality Group, bringing the brand to Australia. The Australian branch opened in Sydney on Pitt Street last week.
MasterChef Australia airs Sunday – Wednesday on Channel 10 and 10Play.
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