Jobaaj Stories
🍳 MasterChef Australia 2025: Poh Ling Yeow Returns as Judge
The 17th season of MasterChef Australia, aptly named Back to Win, kicked off on April 28, 2025, with a fresh batch of contestants returning for another shot at the $250,000 grand prize. This season stands out not only for the return of some of the finest chefs but also for the inclusion of Poh Ling Yeow, who returns as a judge. Poh, known for her unique blend of creativity and culinary expertise, has garnered a devoted fan base since her days as a contestant. She brings her vast experience and new perspective as she evaluates the contestants in this exciting season.
👩🍳 Poh Ling Yeow's Journey from Contestant to Judge
Poh Ling Yeow first captured the nation’s attention when she became a runner-up in Season 1 of MasterChef Australia. Her engaging personality and remarkable cooking skills made her a household name, securing her place in the hearts of viewers across the country. Since then, Poh’s journey has been filled with a mix of culinary innovation and media presence, including cookbooks, television appearances, and restaurant ventures.
As a judge on MasterChef Australia, Poh brings a wealth of experience from both the kitchen and her time in the spotlight. She joins esteemed fellow judges Andy Allen, Jean-Christophe Novelli, and Sofia Levin to guide and mentor the returning contestants. Each of the judges brings a unique angle to the competition, creating an engaging mix of expertise and dynamic storytelling. Poh’s return to the show marks a full-circle moment in her journey from passionate contestant to a seasoned judge.
🎙️ Poh's Reflections on Judging
While being a judge on MasterChef Australia is a prestigious position, Poh admits that it presents its own set of challenges. In an insightful interview with news.com.au’s podcast From the Newsroom, Poh shared that she initially underestimated how difficult the role of a judge would be. Unlike her days as a contestant, where unpredictability was part of the fun, Poh now must offer balanced feedback and critiques.
Poh remarked, "I love the chaos... there's nothing quite as exhilarating as just having days on end where you do not know what's going to happen." Despite her initial nerves and doubts about judging, Poh’s approach has been well-received. Her honest, thoughtful, and constructive comments provide contestants with valuable guidance while maintaining the show’s entertaining charm. Viewers have appreciated Poh’s down-to-earth approach, making her a fan-favorite among MasterChef enthusiasts.
📺 Where to Watch
MasterChef Australia: Back to Win is available for streaming on Network 10 and can be accessed on JioHotstar for international audiences. The show is expected to keep viewers engaged with exciting challenges, intense moments, and the culinary expertise of both the contestants and the judges.
