In the penultimate semi-final of the 2024 MasterChef series aired on BBC, viewers expressed outrage over a contestant's choice of dish inspired by Jack the Ripper. The contestants were tasked with creating 'theatrical' dishes to impress judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace.
Among the participants, circus performer Chris, aged 44, presented a 'murder mystery' dish themed around the infamous serial killer Jack the Ripper. The dish featured a fire-breathing performance and clues about the 1888 Whitechapel murders. Chris asked the judges to identify his inspiration from clues in a box, revealing a glow-in-the-dark bone marrow beef tartare.
Chris’s dish drew heavy criticism from viewers who took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to condemn the apparent 'glamorisation' of Jack the Ripper's violent history. Comments highlighted the inappropriateness of celebrating a figure known for heinous crimes against women.
Other contestants also showcased unique and visually striking dishes. Doctor George introduced an anatomy-inspired meal featuring a heart made of beetroot and duck breast lungs encased in a parsnip crisp ribcage. Farmer Louise, 43, created a dish that appeared as a dessert but was savory, featuring components like bacon panna cotta and chorizo crumb. Grandmother Mary presented a dessert scotch egg made of coconut rice pudding and custard yolk. Sales worker Abi, 21, served a gourmet version of 'dippy egg and soldiers’, and veterinary surgeon Brim, 28, crafted a 'dog’s dinner' composed of bone marrow panna cotta and shaped shortbread.
Despite the creative efforts, Dr. George was eliminated before the next round.