Meghan Markle appears as guest judge on MasterChef Australia amid backstage mix‑up

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, featured as a guest judge on a MasterChef Australia episode that aired on Sunday, July 26. In the broadcast she praised the contestants’ sportsmanship, highlighted her favorite seasonal ingredients and encouraged them to have fun.

Behind the scenes, tension arose when judge Poh Ling Yeow mistakenly introduced Meghan as “royalty” in promotional material, contrary to the Duchess’s request. Producers intervened several times to keep filming on schedule, and both Meghan and Poh expressed frustration over the incident.

The appearance marks one of the most high‑profile royal guest spots on Australian television, drawing considerable public interest.