When Jean-Christophe Novelli was announced as the host of the new cooking series The Heat earlier this year, MasterChef Australia fans went into meltdown, fearing the beloved judge might not return for another season. But Jean-Christophe reassured Chattr there’s no need to worry, revealing he loves being part of MasterChef Australia and shared why he has no plans to step away from the kitchen anytime soon.
“You see, MasterChef Australia is not just a show, it is a kitchen of dreams. Of course, new opportunities come, they are exciting, but this… this is home for me. I come back for the people, for the transformation, for the moment someone realises their own potential. It is addictive, like chasing the perfect dish,” he explained.
The accomplished chef, who boasts four Michelin stars, added that despite his busy schedule, carving out time for MasterChef was important to him.
“Doing Masterchef Australia is like running a marathon with your family. It’s become a pilgrimage,” he said.
“The Heat and all of my commitments, which I am super loyal to also, are equally as exciting but more like joining to run a sprint with new friends. There are 12 months in a year, there is room for everyone.”
Jean-Christophe Novelli says MasterChef Australia viewers should prepare for an emotional season
MasterChef viewers got one of their first emotional scenes this season, which saw judge Poh Ling Yeow in tears as Bella Di Conza was eliminated from the competition. And, Jean-Christophe teased that fans can expect plenty more moments that will tug at the heartstrings.
“I am still surprised that Kleenex isn’t a sponsor of the show! The decibel level is at its highest. At one point there was so much noise, I thought we would be kicked out from the studio by the neighbours!” He laughed.
“There is no other rollercoaster that carries suspense, joy, excitement, tears and laughter at the same time. It is very unusual to see so many people from different walks of life, driving themselves to the extremes in the same environment for that long. And all of this under the biggest kitchen clock that there is in the world! It is probably as big as the one on Big Ben!”
We’re so relieved Jean-Christophe is staying put on MasterChef Australia!
MasterChef Australia airs Sunday 7pm and Monday and Tuesday at 7.30pm on Channel 10 and 10Play.
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