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John Torode stands as one of the most recognisable faces in British food television. With a career spanning more than three decades, he is best known as the straight-talking co-host of MasterChef, a role that has made him a household name across the UK. His journey from the kitchens of Melbourne to the studios of London is a testament to his passion, resilience, and influence on British culinary culture.
From Melbourne to London: Early Life and Culinary Roots
Born in Melbourne, Australia, Torode developed a love for cooking at an early age under the guidance of his grandmother. He left school at 16 to attend culinary college, quickly gaining experience in some of Melbourne’s top restaurants. By 1991, he had moved to the UK, bringing with him a fresh perspective on food and a drive to succeed in a new culinary landscape.
Torode’s early years in Britain saw him working at high-profile establishments, including Le Pont de la Tour and Quaglino’s, where he first crossed paths with Gregg Wallace. Their partnership would later become central to one of the UK’s most successful television franchises.
Making His Mark: Restaurants and TV Breakthrough
In the mid-1990s, Torode became head chef at Mezzo in Soho, then one of Europe’s largest restaurants. He went on to open Smiths of Smithfield in 2000, a four-floor restaurant in London’s historic meat market. The venue quickly became a staple of the city’s dining scene, known for its focus on British produce and rare breed meats. Torode’s second restaurant, The Luxe, opened in Spitalfields Market in 2009, further cementing his status as a culinary entrepreneur. Under his leadership, the combined turnover of his restaurants reached £9.2 million, reflecting his business acumen as well as his flair in the kitchen.
Torode’s television career began with appearances on ITV’s This Morning, where he became a regular fixture until 2000. His approachable style and clear passion for food made him a natural fit for the small screen.
MasterChef: A Global Phenomenon
The relaunch of MasterChef in 2005 marked a turning point in Torode’s career. Alongside Gregg Wallace, he brought a new energy to the show, which quickly became the world’s most searched-for reality cooking competition. The format’s success led to several spin-offs, including Celebrity MasterChef and Junior MasterChef, all featuring Torode’s signature blend of encouragement and honest critique.
Torode’s role on MasterChef has made him a mentor to countless amateur cooks and a familiar face to millions of viewers. The show’s unscripted format allows his genuine reactions and culinary expertise to shine, helping to launch the careers of many now-prominent chefs.
Culinary Adventures: Exploring the World Through Food
Beyond the MasterChef kitchen, Torode has travelled the globe to explore diverse cuisines. His food travel series have taken viewers from Australia to Malaysia, Korea, Argentina, the Middle East, and, most recently, Ireland. Each programme combines cultural exploration with hands-on cooking, offering insights into local traditions and ingredients.
John Torode’s Australia retraced the flavours of his childhood, while John Torode’s Malaysian Adventure and John Torode’s Asia introduced British audiences to vibrant new dishes and cooking techniques. His 2022 series, John Torode’s Ireland, celebrated the food renaissance in his ancestral homeland, highlighting the evolution of Irish cuisine.
Weekend Kitchen and Media Presence
Torode’s partnership with his wife, actress and food writer Lisa Faulkner, has also become a staple of weekend television. Their ITV show, John & Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen, ranks among the network’s most-watched weekend programmes. The pair share recipes, tips, and light-hearted banter, making the show a favourite for families and food lovers alike.
In addition to his television work, Torode is a prolific author, with several bestselling cookbooks covering everything from British classics to Asian cuisine. His writing is praised for its clarity and accessibility, encouraging home cooks to experiment with new flavours and techniques.
Recent News and Controversy
In July 2025, Torode found himself at the centre of headlines following an inquiry into workplace behaviour at MasterChef. A report commissioned by Banijay, the show’s production company, and led by law firm Lewis Silkin, upheld an allegation that Torode had used racial language during a social situation in 2018 or 2019. Torode released a statement confirming he was the individual in question, expressing shock and sadness at the allegation. He stated that he had no recollection of the incident, did not believe it happened, and emphasised his belief that any racial language is wholly unacceptable. The person involved reportedly did not believe the language was intended maliciously and noted that Torode apologised immediately afterwards.
The BBC, which airs MasterChef, reiterated its commitment to maintaining a respectful and inclusive environment on all its productions, stating that there is “no place for the abuse of power, unacceptable behaviour or language at the BBC or shows made for the BBC”.
Recognition and Community Work
Torode’s contributions to food and broadcasting have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, he was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours for his services to food, broadcasting, and charity. He has been involved in initiatives such as “Come Eat Together!”, which encourages elderly people to connect through shared meals, combating loneliness and fostering community spirit.
His advocacy for British produce, especially rare breeds and sustainable sourcing, has helped shape the UK’s food landscape. Torode’s “Fine Meat List” and support for small farmers and butchers reflect his commitment to quality and tradition.
Conclusion
John Torode’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and reinvention. From his early days in Melbourne to his status as a British television icon, he has shaped the way the UK cooks, eats, and thinks about food. As MasterChef continues to captivate audiences and his culinary adventures inspire new generations, Torode’s impact on the nation’s palate is undeniable. Whether in the kitchen, on screen, or in the community, John Torode’s influence is set to endure, reflecting the ever-evolving tastes and values of British society.
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