Juan De La Cruz Torales Villarreal, a 39-year-old contestant on MasterChef Australia, revealed his previous experience on a reality TV show during a recent episode. In an effort to avoid elimination, Villarreal presented an Asado Argentino dish which led to a discussion about his past as a participant in the Argentinian version of the reality show Popstars at age 17. This disclosure occurred during the eliminations when Villarreal successfully secured his place in the competition, whereas Lily Davies, a nurse-turned-home cook, was the fifth contestant to be sent home this season.
This season of MasterChef Australia has seen some changes in its judging panel, with Andy Allen returning and new judges including former contestant Poh Ling Yeow, food critic Sofia Levin, and French celebrity chef Jean-Christophe Novelli joining the lineup. This reshuffling follows the departures of former judges Melissa Leong and Jock Zonfrillo.