“You can’t fake it!”: MasterChef’s judges open up about working together for 10 years
As MasterChef celebrates its 10th season this year, judges Matt Preston, Gary Mehigan and George Calombaris open up about the friendship the trio have developed over the decade.
Having worked together on the cooking competition since its inception in 2009, the trio have an on-screen chemistry and genuine bond that is so rare to find on reality TV.
"It's a functional marriage," Gary, 51, jokes to TV Week. "And beyond that, it's a good marriage. We forgive each other and support each other. Most importantly, we give each other space when we need it."
He adds that whatever difficult times they’ve been through – personal or professional – all three of them know they’re able to ask each other for genuine advice and support.
"We keep each other honest," he says.
For George, it’s been particularly helpful to have his buddies by his side after his tough year. He’s had to repay $2.6 million in staff wages from his restaurant group, Made Establishment, and was also charged with assault after a brawl at the A-League grand final.
"You learn very quickly who your friends are during the tough times,” George says.
He added it’s "comforting and wonderful and beautiful" to know his friends back him.
"It's the same for me," he declares. "I will always be there for them."
The genuine closeness and friendship is what they attribute to their longevity in a fickle industry.
"I think the three of us are so similar, but we're also totally different human beings," George says. "I guess if we were the same, it would be a disaster."
Food critic Matt adds you can't fake chemistry on TV.
"Over the 10 years, we've probably had four or five arguments – and that's insane," the 54-year-old says.
"We share a common sense of values and of what is important for this show.
"We have a joy for what we do, and that translates to what we do. You can't fake that."