Angellica Bell has revealed she would be open to co-hosting Celebrity MasterChef alongside Grace Dent. The 49-year-old presenter, who won the BBC cookery competition in 2017, said she would happily consider the role after enjoying her own experience on the show. Dent, 51, stepped in as co-host last December following Gregg Wallace’s departure amid an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
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Bell fondly recalled her winning dishes from the series, including fried halibut with king prawns and a vermouth sauce, which secured her the title. She also impressed the judges with a fig and camembert starter, a pear tart with an amaretto crumb, and her standout “Chocolate Nightmare” dessert with olive oil ice cream. Reflecting on her time on the programme, she described cooking as a “language of love” passed down from her grandmother, and said the competition gave her lasting memories and confidence.
The broadcaster highlighted the positive impact that Celebrity MasterChef has had on contestants, noting that the show has opened new opportunities for many participants. She praised reality television more broadly, suggesting it provides a valuable platform for individuals to showcase their talents and pursue fresh career paths.
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Meanwhile, the controversy surrounding former presenters Gregg Wallace and John Torode has continued. A report by law firm Lewis Silkin upheld dozens of allegations against Wallace, including inappropriate language and behaviour, leading the BBC to confirm it would not work with him again. Torode, who admitted to using a racist term several years ago, also had his contract terminated in July. With both men departing, the future line-up of Celebrity MasterChef remains in transition, making Bell’s potential involvement a point of interest for fans.
