Meghan Markle’s forthcoming appearance as a guest judge on *MasterChef Australia* has prompted both support and criticism online, particularly over her lack of professional chef credentials. Commentators quoted by Fox News say the controversy could nevertheless benefit both Markle’s lifestyle brand and the programme by generating publicity and viewer curiosity, though others argue it may reinforce doubts about her authenticity.

The 44-year-old filmed the episode with Prince Harry during an April visit to Australia, and contestants will prepare a dish using her preferred seasonal ingredients. The appearance follows her Netflix lifestyle series *With Love, Meghan*, launched in 2025, and links to her As Ever brand; it also recalls her 2018 work with London’s Hubb Community Kitchen after the Grenfell Tower fire. Experts disagreed over whether the publicity will translate into ratings or intensify what they describe as a divided public response.