Meghan Markle Faces ‘Hate Watch’ Warning As Robert Irwin Reportedly Loses Out On ‘MasterChef’ Role

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The upcoming appearance of Meghan Markle on “Junior MasterChef Australia” is facing another round of scrutiny, with an insider warning that the Duchess of Sussex could turn the children’s cooking competition into a “hate watch.” The concerns come as a separate report claims Australian television personality Robert Irwin was being considered as an alternative if Meghan’s arrangement with the show fell through.

While Meghan’s celebrity status could attract considerable attention to the returning series, questions are being raised about whether that publicity might overshadow the young contestants. Her involvement has already sparked criticism from some viewers, even as “MasterChef” personality Poh Ling Yeow continues to express enthusiasm about working with her again.

Meghan Markle Faces Warning That ‘MasterChef’ Could Become A ‘Hate Watch’

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Meghan’s return to Australian television could attract viewers for reasons producers might not have anticipated. As reported by Mandatory, via Yahoo Entertainment, an entertainment insider expressed concern that the Duchess’s appearance could attract people more interested in criticizing her than watching the competition. The warning, originally reported by RadarOnline, suggested that Meghan’s presence might become the show’s biggest talking point, regardless of how well the young contestants perform.

“The producers will know that Meghan guarantees headlines, but headlines can cut both ways,” the insider claimed.

The source suggested that some viewers could tune in specifically to scrutinize Meghan, potentially making the controversy surrounding her more prominent than the cooking itself. Although the warning is speculative, it reflects the divided reactions that have followed Meghan’s return to the Australian franchise.

Robert Irwin Reportedly Misses Out As Meghan Markle Secures ‘MasterChef’ Appearance

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Meghan’s involvement has also raised questions about another familiar face from Australian television. According to Woman’s Day Australia, Irwin was reportedly being considered as an alternative if the Duchess’ agreement to appear on “Junior MasterChef Australia” did not move forward.

“Word is that Robert Irwin was being held in the wings in case this deal with Meghan fell through,” an insider told the publication.

The source added that Irwin had thoroughly enjoyed his previous experience on “MasterChef Australia” and would have been a natural fit alongside Poh Ling Yeow. Irwin, the son of the late wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin, has become a familiar television personality in Australia and internationally. His previous appearance on the adult cooking competition also gave him experience interacting with the show’s contestants and judges.

However, the report did not indicate that Irwin had received a formal offer for the junior series or that producers had removed him from an existing position. Instead, he was reportedly being kept in consideration should Meghan’s participation fail to materialize.

• Prince Harry and Meghan Markle came under fire over reports of a possible move to Australia.
• Meghan’s reported payday for her “MasterChef” appearance could reportedly cover a full year of living expenses in Montecito.
• Harry’s armored Range Rover sparked questions about whether King Charles had any involvement.
• Meghan reportedly needs help from a well-connected “local grande dame” as she struggles to find her place in British society.
• Harry reportedly fears Prince William wants him “cut out completely” amid their ongoing family feud.
• Harry and Meghan are reportedly dealing with “money worries” as questions continue over their finances and a possible return to Britain.

Meghan Markle And Robert Irwin Previously Drew Similar ‘MasterChef’ Audiences

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The reported casting decision is particularly interesting because both Meghan and Irwin have already appeared on the Australian cooking franchise. According to Woman’s Day, their previous segments attracted comparable audiences, although the episodes aired in different time slots. Irwin’s appearance was broadcast on a Wednesday, while Meghan’s episode received a prime-time Sunday slot. That scheduling difference makes a direct comparison difficult, but the publication suggested that both personalities had demonstrated an ability to attract viewers.

Irwin’s established popularity in Australia could have made him a familiar choice for a program centered on young contestants. Meghan, meanwhile, brings international recognition and extensive media attention to the production. The decision to feature the Duchess as a special guest gives the returning series a recognizable name with an audience extending beyond Australia.

Meghan Markle Faces Backlash As Viewers Question ‘Junior MasterChef’ Casting

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The controversy surrounding Meghan’s appearance began shortly after her involvement was announced. An online petition calling for her removal from “Junior MasterChef Australia” attracted thousands of signatures, with critics questioning whether she was the right choice for a children’s cooking competition. Some viewers argued that the program should prioritize Australian personalities rather than international celebrities. The reported consideration of Irwin has added another dimension to that discussion, given his popularity with Australian audiences. However, the petition represents the opinions of its supporters rather than an official decision by the show’s producers. Meghan’s participation has already been announced, and there has been no indication that the production intends to reverse its decision.

Meghan Markle Receives Support From Poh Ling Yeow Despite Casting Controversy

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While Meghan’s return has attracted criticism, Poh Ling Yeow has spoken positively about their previous collaboration. Speaking to Woman’s Day at Network 10’s promotional launch, Yeow said she was still processing the news that the Duchess would be returning to the franchise.

“It’s incredible, it’s wonderful,” the Australian chef said.

Yeow also praised Meghan’s conduct during her earlier appearance on “MasterChef Australia.”

“Meghan was a consummate professional, she was so easygoing,” she recalled.

The television personality explained that the Duchess spent time with the production team rather than isolating herself between filming.

“She hung out with us the whole time, she didn’t scurry away into her trailer,” Yeow said.

Her account offers a different perspective from the negative predictions surrounding Meghan’s upcoming appearance. For now, the Duchess remains confirmed as a special guest on “Junior MasterChef Australia,” which is scheduled to return in 2027. Whether the attention surrounding her appearance ultimately benefits the young contestants will become clearer when the new series airs.