Movies

Is godfather of hospitality MasterChef’s next judge?

BBG News

In a forthcoming series filmed the previous year, former MasterChef judges Gregg Wallace and John Torode will make an appearance. However, there’s talk of an exciting, vibrant personality taking over their roles in future seasons.

It’s said that Robert Walton, frequently referred to as the “patriarch of hospitality,” has reportedly discussed potential involvement with the struggling BBC cooking program.

In December, it was announced that restaurant critic Grace Dent would take over from Wallace, who resigned after various past accusations of inappropriate behavior were brought against him regarding his conduct.

According to a source, discussions are underway regarding Robert potentially taking on the role of MasterChef judge, partnered with Dent. Despite being unpredictable, he stands out as the most suitable candidate for the position.

As a die-hard fan, I can’t help but express my excitement about the potential pairing of Robert and Grace on MasterChef! It seems they’re experimenting with various duos, and I’m eager to see what they come up with. What makes this idea even more intriguing is that these two are esteemed figures in the world of food and hospitality – decorated and highly respected individuals. If they were to judge on MasterChef, it would indeed be a refreshing change, adding a touch of authority and expertise to the competition.

In a turn of events that I hold close to my heart, I, Walton, find myself graced with the royal recognition bestowed upon me when I was honored with an MBE in 2007 by none other than Prince Charles at the illustrious Buckingham Palace. This prestigious award came as a result of my dedicated service to the hospitality sector. Sharing this journey is my beloved wife, the talented Australian fashion designer Donna Ida Thornton.

This week, Walton received another honor at the House of Lords, where he was bestowed with the British Icon of Hospitality Award during the Arabreneurs Gala Dinner event.

He expresses his disappointment about MasterChef and how things have unfolded, saying to me, ‘It’s a cherished institution that should continue, and if asked, I’d be thrilled to step up and ensure its success.’

Initially, it was suggested that Matt Tebbutt from Saturday Kitchen and Andi Oliver, known for hosting Great British Menu, could take over the position left vacant by Torode.

 

Princess Anne’s woes with Wills 

Princess Anne, the diligent princess, postponed her holidays for another investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Tuesday. This is one of about 30 ceremonies held annually, where individuals receiving honors are presented with their awards by either King Charles (76), her brother, or Prince William (43), who resides in Windsor.

According to a source familiar with Anne, she has been carrying out most of the investitures at Windsor Castle, despite William residing there. This situation reportedly irritates her. (The Sunday Times)

Her nephew is currently on holiday abroad with his family.

 

Pick up after your own pooches, says Lucrezia 

On air, she’s recognized for her composed manner during news broadcasts, but behind the scenes, ITV News presenter Lucrezia Millarini displays a more feisty personality.

49-year-old winner of Celebrity Mastermind openly shares her habit of addressing other pet owners who neglect to tidy up after their animals.

‘I have done this a few times,’ she tells me at the premiere of the documentary Dogspiracy.

‘Cleaning up after your dog is the right and proper thing to do.’

Lucrezia, the owner of Milo, the Lhasa Apso shown up top, remarks that dog owners who allow their pets to make a mess are typically assertive. She also notes that it is usually men who respond defensively, often using a four-letter expletive.

 

 

On Tuesday, Ozzy Osbourne, the legendary Black Sabbath frontman, passed away at home, enveloped by his family’s love and companionship. His daughter, Kelly, shared with me earlier this month that he was content in Britain but longed to be reunited with his cherished pets. ‘He adores the house,’ she said, ‘but he can hardly wait for the dogs to join him.’ Luckily, it seems his dearly loved dogs arrived before his passing. They were a significant part of Ozzy’s TV series The Osbournes, and even his late pomeranian Rocky could be seen ‘headbanging’ to Crazy Train in one of his videos.

 

Apinall’s ex is expecting miracle baby 

In 2022, when it was revealed that Damian Aspinall, the casino and wildlife park heir, parted ways with his second spouse, Victoria (shown on the left), acquaintances mentioned that Victoria had consistently expressed her desire to have children with him.

In the spirit of honesty and transparency, I’ve come forward to share that our marital journey came to an end due to my personal challenge in conceiving. Now, I find myself blessedly expecting – a ‘miracle baby’ conceived with the help of an anonymous individual.

The ex-Burberry executive, age 39, confessed to being completely taken aback when she learned about her pregnancy earlier in the year. For nearly seven years, my spouse and I had tirelessly pursued our dream of having a child, enduring numerous IVF cycles, miscarriages, and gradually fading hope that ultimately wore thin.

Losing everything I cherished – my marriage, house, job, identity – set me back for nearly three years. I had to mourn, reconstruct, and ultimately come to terms with the possibility that being a mother may not be in my destiny.

It appears that Victoria is not involved romantically with the child’s father, as she expressed: ‘What I had envisioned to share with someone no longer exists in my life. Choosing to raise this child has been the most courageous decision I have ever made.’

 

ITV has emphasized the risks taken by celebrities participating in its highly-anticipated show Shark! Infested Celebrity Waters, featuring stars like Rachel Riley from Countdown and Helen George from Call The Midwife who swim with sharks. However, one of the stars, Sir Lenny Henry, seems to have disclosed some truth about this ‘reality’ program. “We made it out alive,” says the 66-year-old actor and comedian. “ITV doesn’t want any celebrity to be eaten on live TV.

Read More

2025-07-24 03:35

Previous post Ozzy Osbourne is seen just two days before his death in a final heartwarming video having breakfast with his family
Next post Jackie ‘O’ Henderson reveals the sad truth behind what started her painkiller addiction – and why most women will understand