Grace Dent’s sweet tooth takes center stage on Celebrity MasterChef
Grace Dent, known for her unabashed love of desserts, engages in light-hearted banter with her Celebrity MasterChef co-host, Giorgio Locatelli, highlighting her penchant for indulgence, reports BritPanorama. During a recent tasting, Locatelli playfully estimates her portion size, prompting her playful rebuttal that it would be “five easily.”
In discussions about contestant evaluations, Dent notes that charm can be earned through cleanliness and attention to detail in the kitchen. “But with me it’s all about the sugar,” she states, emphasizing that a well-made trifle can win her over faster than anything else. Meanwhile, Locatelli maintains a more traditional stance on dessert, insisting their ingredients should be simple rather than overly sweet.
Since stepping into the role on MasterChef in 2025, Dent has captivated audiences with her unique style, embodying what she describes as “high-camp matriarch wardrobe.” Her vibrant outfits, which she likens to that of Joan Collins from *Dynasty*, are as much an attraction as her critiques. “Ambitious food and dressing up go together, don’t they?” she reflects, hinting at a deliberate approach to both her appearance and her role as a judge.
Combining her enthusiasm for food with her background, Dent’s northern accent and playful use of language have endeared her to viewers. Her ability to navigate the sensitive personalities of the contestants reflects her astute understanding of the show’s dynamics. “I try to get a good measure of who I’m dealing with very quickly,” she explains when discussing feedback strategies.
Dent’s journey from reviewing restaurants to becoming a celebrated food critic has not dulled her love for simple pleasures. Raised in Carlisle, she blends her early experiences with her current gourmet palate, often advocating for culinary exploration beyond traditional British fare. Her reviews push against the lingering stigma surrounding certain foods, such as anchovies, urging a fresh perspective on familiar ingredients.
Locatelli, born in 1963 in Northern Italy and trained in an environment steeped in fine dining, represents a contrast to Dent’s approach. Together, they navigate their differing backgrounds, especially when it comes to culinary preferences. “Giorgio has a little espresso in the morning because he’s very Italian,” Dent observes, contrasting it with her fondness for Gold Blend coffee in the evening.
Their contrasting styles culminate in a rich cultural exchange, showcasing how Dent’s affinity for indulgence and Locatelli’s minimalist roots create a dynamic atmosphere on the show. While Locatelli has embraced some of Dent’s tastes, such as snacking on biscuit delicacies from Fortnum & Mason, the pair continue to showcase their culinary philosophies through playful competition.
The final of *Celebrity MasterChef* airs tomorrow night at 8 pm on BBC One, promising yet another entertaining episode featuring these culinary personalities.
