one of the most inspiring names on this year’s line-up.
Gaz Choudhry and Noreen Khan are among the new contestants confirmed for the 20th series of Celebrity MasterChef, returning to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this autumn.
The BBC said it will go ahead with broadcasting the latest series, featuring sacked co-presenter John Torode.
Torode was sacked in the summer after an allegation against him using “an extremely offensive racist term” was upheld. He has said he has “no recollection” of it.
In a statement, the BBC said it had not been a “straightforward decision” but that all of the celebrities, contestants and guests involved had confirmed they were happy for the shows to be aired.
The milestone series, recorded earlier in 2025, will see Torode presenting alongside food critic Grace Dent.
Produced by Shine TV, a Banijay UK company, the show promises a blend of glamour, humour and competition as celebrities from sport, music, comedy, and drama enter the famous kitchen.
Across five weeks of intense challenges, 15 contestants will test their culinary creativity under the pressure of the clock.
Each will be determined to impress the judges and secure the title of Celebrity MasterChef 2025 Champion.
Former Paralympian Gaz Choudhry MBE, 40, is one of the most inspiring names on this year’s line-up.
Born in Pakistan, Gaz underwent an amputation at the age of 10 before moving to London with his family three years later.
His introduction to wheelchair basketball soon followed, launching a remarkable career that saw him represent Team GB in three Paralympic Games.
Gaz played a crucial role in helping Great Britain win bronze medals at both the 2016 Rio and 2020 Tokyo Games.
Known for his determination and focus, he now hopes to transfer those qualities to the MasterChef kitchen.
Joining him in the competition is Noreen Khan, who was best known for her time on BBC Asian Network.
A stand-up comedian, television host, and certified yoga teacher, Noreen’s mix of warmth and wit has made her a firm favourite among audiences.
She has fronted BBC2’s Back in Time and The Fizzy Quiz Show.
On Instagram, Noreen announced:
“I can finally share that I’m going to be taking part in the new series of Celebrity MasterChef!!”
“OMG I’m so excited and can’t wait for you to watch this!! Your girl is repping and I’ve never been so nervous in all my life!!”
From rugby legend Alun Wyn Jones and actor Jamie Lomas to Gladiator Jodie Ounsley and Love Island star Uma Jammeh, this year’s Celebrity MasterChef promises a dazzling line-up and high-stakes cooking.