- TV News
'ON MY TERMS'
The food writer claimed she "left on my terms" despite speculation she was dumped by the network
- Summer Raemason
MASTERCHEF Australia fans were shocked when Melissa Leong announced she was turning her back on the show.
Melissa Leong has been a fan favourite hosting the popular cooking competition for three years - here's everything you need to know.
1
Who is Melissa Leong and how old is she?
Melissa Leong is perhaps best known for her time as a judge on the popular cooking competition MasterChef Australia alongside Andy Allen and the late Jock Zonfrillo.
She was born in Sydney, Australia in 1982 and her parents emigrated to the country from Singapore.
Melissa has dedicated her love of cooking to her mother's culinary creativity.
The freelance food writer and critic is known to have battled health conditions over the years.
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She has been open about her struggles with depression and anxiety, as well as an autoimmune disorder which led to chronic asthma.
Is Melissa Leong's married?
Melissa married her former husband Joe Jones in 2017 but they sadly separated in 2020.
She revealed a new romantic relationship with Melbourne entrepreneur Rob Mason in 2021 and the happy couple are still together as of 2023.
The cooking judge told Who.com.au: "I’m really happy with my point in life right now.
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"I think you work really hard to earn your happiness, and [I’m] understanding that I strive more for contentment rather than happiness."
However she admitted she prefers to keep her personal life private and "leave a little bit of mystery" when it comes to the relationship.
She does not have any children.
Why has Melissa Leong left MasterChef Australia?
MasterChef Australia announced Melissa would be leaving the show before the next season, but "remains a key member" of the network's family.
The former presenter penned a heartfelt message on her Instagram which read: "My time as co-host and judge on @MasterChefAU has been a great gift.
"To have been given the opportunity to learn and grow - and now to be given the vote of confidence to expand and evolve the MasterChef universe is huge.
"Stepping away from the main show and into #DessertMastersAU alongside the extraordinary @AmauryGuichon, is yet another sweet present indeed.
"It is with great warmth and enthusiasm that I wish this new lineup of judges and hosts all the best in making it theirs, and big love to @andyallencooks for leading the way.
"The changing of the guard is one I always planned to embrace, and I'm so glad to do that, on my terms, today.
"On top of all that joy, I am excited to share with you (soon), some other projects I’ve been working on behind the scenes, so watch this space!
"My gratitude to our audience for all your support, can't wait for you to see the new show. Love and respect always".
In her place, MasterChef Australia alum Ling Yeow will be reappearing on screens.
She has also spoke of the new TV gig: "MasterChef Australia is where my food story began, so this feels like coming home.
"A big part of me will always be standing on the other side with the contestants and I hope when they look to me, they see proof you don't have to win to win."
Jean-Christophe Novelli and Sofia Levin are also set to join the team.
What is Melissa Leong's net worth?
There are conflicting reports as to the MasterChef Australia's net worth but most range from $800,000 to $2million.
She has amassed her wealth through working on the popular show from 2020 to 2023.
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Melissa also co-hosted The Chef's Line with Dan Hong and Mark Olive from 2017 to 2018.
The Aussie TV personality has dabbled in cookbook editing, radio, marketing, food writing and critiquing.
