'Young MasterChef' announces two new judges for BBC Three contest

The newest incarnation of hit TV cookery contest MasterChef has signed up two judges set to bring a fresh take to the famous kitchen.

Young MasterChef is set to launch on BBC Three in 2023 and has announced that its judges will be accomplished chefs Poppy O'Toole and Kerth Gumbs.

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MasterChef, which has also run professional, junior and celebrity versions alongside the main show, will debut Young MasterChef for contestants aged between 18 and 25.

BBC Three controller Fiona Campbell said: "It’s brilliant news that we have Poppy and Kerth on board for Young MasterChef on BBC Three. Their experience in the industry speaks for itself and we know that they will be great guides for this next generation of culinary talent from across the UK."

O’Toole is known on social media as Poppy Cooks and her easy-to-follow fine dining recipe tutorials have attracted 2 million followers since she began them in 2020 after losing her job during the pandemic.

She said: "I’m so excited to be judging Young MasterChef and getting to discover the amazing young cooking talent we have in the UK.

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"Having worked my way up through the ranks of professional fine dining kitchens to now teaching millions of amateur cooks online, nurturing the next generation with MasterChef feels like a perfect new role.

"I can’t wait to eat some incredible food along the way – and just hope I can stop after a few forkfuls of the amazing dishes I’m going to see!"

Gumbs, who was inspired to become a chef by watching his mum cater weddings and funerals while he was growing up on the Caribbean island of Anguilla, has worked in some of London's most celebrated restaurants as well as in Singapore with Jason Atherton.

He said: "I’m humbled to be joining such a highly esteemed team on MasterChef. Guiding the best upcoming foodies with some very cool cooking challenges is a huge opportunity. I’m buzzing with excitement to get started on what should be an incredible show."

Applications for Young MasterChef are currently open here.

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