The television program MasterChef: The Professionals has premiered its eighteenth series, introducing a new judge, Matt Tebbutt. This change follows the departure of Gregg Wallace. Early viewer reception indicates a favorable response to Tebbutt's integration into the judging panel.

The latest installment of MasterChef: The Professionals has begun airing, featuring Matt Tebbutt as a new judge alongside existing panelists Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti. This series marks a shift in the show's composition after Gregg Wallace exited his role. The program's return has been met with audience commentary specifically regarding the new judging dynamic.

New Judging Panel Unveiled
MasterChef: The Professionals, a spin-off series, has launched its 18th season. The show now features Matt Tebbutt, known for hosting Saturday Kitchen, as a new judge. He joins Marcus Wareing and Monica Galetti, both professional chefs. This appointment comes after Gregg Wallace's departure from the MasterChef franchise.
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Matt Tebbutt's previous television experience includes shows like Saturday Kitchen, Food Unwrapped, and Save Money: Good Food.
He will be part of the core judging team for the 18th series, which also features guest judges in the initial stages.
"Good to see you both, new competition, new kitchen and we have a new judge, welcome Matt!" - Marcus Wareing
"Thank you very much, great to be here, great to be a part of the MasterChef family." - Matt Tebbutt
Viewer Reaction to Tebbutt's Debut
Initial viewer responses shared online indicate a positive reception to Matt Tebbutt's performance as a judge. Comments suggest that his presence has been well-received by the audience.

Viewers have commented that Tebbutt "will fit in nicely."
Some viewers believe he is a suitable addition, with one noting, "I think he'll be good for this show."
Audience sentiment suggests Tebbutt is perceived as a familiar and respected figure within the culinary television landscape.
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"I think Matt Tebbutt will fit in nicely, he's popular with viewers and he knows his craft." - Viewer comment cited in multiple reports
"Like Matt tbf think he'll be good for this show." - Another viewer comment
Context of the Change
The introduction of Matt Tebbutt as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals is directly linked to Gregg Wallace's exit from the MasterChef program. Reports suggest Wallace's departure followed allegations of misconduct during his time on the amateur version of the show.
Gregg Wallace's removal from the program occurred after a report substantiated claims regarding his conduct.
The scheduling of two MasterChef celebrity Christmas specials was affected in December following these allegations.
Tebbutt's appointment is presented as a "fresh start" for the show by some media outlets.
Tebbutt's Perspective
Matt Tebbutt has expressed his enthusiasm for joining the MasterChef team. He described his new role as being part of the "MasterChef family" and indicated his understanding of the pressure contestants face.
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"I'd like to see myself as the nice guy of the outfit, I've run kitchens before, run my own, I know the pressure that these guys are under." - Matt Tebbutt
Marcus Wareing offered a lighthearted warning to Tebbutt, suggesting the series would be an "arduous journey."
Programmatic Progression
The program's producers highlighted the development of contestants throughout the series. Marcus Wareing noted:
"Their commitment was clear and it was also clear to see how much they changed from week one to week seven - the progression was, was enormous. And they take it very, very seriously."
MasterChef: The Professionals continues its broadcast on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
Sources Used
Mirror: MasterChef viewers say same thing as Saturday Kitchen star lands new role
Published: 12 hours ago
Context: Reports on viewer reactions to Matt Tebbutt joining MasterChef: The Professionals.
Link: https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/masterchef-viewers-say-same-thing-36702213
Express: BBC MasterChef viewers say same thing as judges replaced
Published: 13 hours ago
Context: Details viewer responses to changes in the MasterChef: The Professionals judging panel, focusing on Matt Tebbutt.
Cosmopolitan: Who is Matt Tebbutt? Career history, age and Instagram as he joins Masterchef: The Professionals
Published: 16 hours ago
Context: Provides background information on Matt Tebbutt, highlighting his new role as a judge.
Link: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/entertainment/a70297420/matt-tebbutt-masterchef-professionals/
The Guardian: Matt Tebbutt to replace Gregg Wallace on MasterChef: The Professionals
Published: September 6, 2025
Context: Announces Matt Tebbutt's appointment as a replacement for Gregg Wallace, citing reasons for Wallace's departure.
Kent Live: Saturday Kitchen’s Matt Tebbutt delights MasterChef fans with new role
Published: 12 hours ago
Context: Covers fan reactions and positive sentiment towards Matt Tebbutt's new judging position.
Link: https://www.kentlive.news/news/celebs-tv/saturday-kitchens-matt-tebbutt-delights-10807638
Wales Online (1): MasterChef The Professionals start time, change to judges and contestants
Published: 1 day ago
Context: Discusses the start of MasterChef: The Professionals series 18, including the new judge.
Link: https://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle/tv/masterchef-professionals-start-time-change-33395666
Country & Town House: Who Is Matt Tebbutt? Meet The New MasterChef: The Professionals Judge
Published: September 8, 2025
Context: Introduces Matt Tebbutt as the new judge replacing Gregg Wallace on MasterChef: The Professionals.
Link: https://www.countryandtownhouse.com/food-and-drink/matt-tebbutt/
The Telegraph: Who is Matt Tebbutt, the man replacing Gregg Wallace on MasterChef?
Context: Provides an overview of Matt Tebbutt's career and his new role on MasterChef: The Professionals.
Link: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/tv/0/new-masterchef-professionals-judge-matt-tebutt/
Wales Online (2): MasterChef: The Professionals says 'stunning' spot near Welsh home is 'like a different world'
Published: 2 days ago
Context: Features Matt Tebbutt discussing his personal life and upcoming debut on MasterChef: The Professionals.
Link: https://www.walesonline.co.uk/lifestyle/showbiz/masterchefs-matt-tebbuttsays-stunning-spot-33393158
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