Meghan Markle will return to Australian television next year to host Junior MasterChef Australia in Melbourne.. This follows a surprise appearance on the main MasterChef Australia series earlier this year that drew massive global attention.
Marty Benson’s "press send and pray" email strategy
Marty Benson, the executive producer of MasterChef Australia, took a significant professional risk by reaching out to Meghan Markle via email. According to the report,this occurred during a period of intense public scrutiny for the Duchess following the cancellation of her Netflix project, "With Love, Meghan."
Benson defended his decision to invite the Duchess, noting that while the world seemed to be criticizing her, he saw an opportunity to elevate the show's profile. he told The Age that he believed her presence could generate fresh buzz around the MasterChef brand, even admitting that he blamed the producers of her previous show for her recent public struggles rather than the Duchess herself.
A Melbourne-based hosting role alongside Poh Ling Yeow
The Duchess of Sussex is scheduled to return to Australia next year to participate in the third season of Junior MasterChef Australia. The production is expected to take place in Melbourne over several weeks, with Markle set to host alongside established judge Poh Ling Yeow. Markle has already expressed her enthusiasm for the project , stating she "can't wait" to collaborate with the young contestants.
There is speculation regarding the scale of the visit, as sources suggest Prince Harry and the couple's children might accompany her to the Melbourne set.. This move marks a significant pivot for Markle as she continues to transition her public role through media projects that resonate with a diverse audience.
Victoria’s refusal to fund Markle’s security expenses
The announcement of Markle's return has triggered a political dispute in Victoria regarding the financial responsibility for her personal protection. Both the Victorian Labor government and the Opposition,led by Jess Wilson, have explicitly stated they will not use taxpayer funds to cover her security expenses. Both major political parties in the state have isused statements affirming this stance.
This tension mirrors earlier debates from this year concerning the use of local police resources for high-profile royal appearances. As the Duchess prepares for her Melbourne filming, the intersection of celebrity presence and public spending remains a volatile issue for Australian politicians.
Who will ultimately pay for the Duchess's protection?
While political leaders in Victoria have made their positions clear, a critical question remains regarding the actual source of funding for the Duchess's security. As the report highlights, while the government has declined to step in, it does not specify if the MasterChef production company or the Duchess's own team will shoulder the costs. Furthermore, it remains unverified whether the presence of Prince Harry and their children will further escalate the required security budget or change the political calculus in Melbourne.
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