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'Why do we need her?': Melbourne residents question Meghan's Junior MasterChef Australia role as hundreds sign a petition against her

Meghan Markle, who Australians say is "only trading on royalty" in a role critics argue should go to homegrown talent, with politicians also rejecting public funding for her security during filming.
Meghan Markle, who Australians say is "only trading on royalty" in a role critics argue should go to homegrown talent, with politicians also rejecting public funding for her security during filming.

Meghan Markle is set to co-host the 2027 season of Junior MasterChef Australia alongside chef Poh Ling Yeow, with filming expected in Melbourne in early-to-mid 2027. The announcement has divided Australian opinion, with a petition attracting hundreds of signatures from those who say a homegrown culinary talent should have got the job instead.

Selby Witteveen, 77, was blunt: 'She just wants money. She is there only trading on royalty, which she is no longer.'

MasterChef's executive producer Marty Benson revealed a 'press send and pray' cold email secured Meghan's original guest appearance, which drew the franchise's best Sunday audience numbers in three years.

Poh Ling Yeow, who will co-host, says she is 'still processing' the news but is 'very, very excited to be working with Meghan.'

Moreibtimes.co.uk'Why Do We Need Her?' Meghan Markle's Junior MasterChef Role Faces Criticism From Some AustraliansAOL News UKMeghan Markle ‘Trading on Royalty’ With MasterChef Gig — ReportDaily MailInside the bold email that landed Meghan Markle on MasterChef Australia - as politicians unite to reject funding for the Duchess of Sussex's securityexpress.co.ukMasterChef Australia star's eight-word response to Meghan Markle returnabcnews.comMeghan Markle takes on new role on 'Junior MasterChef Australia'AOL News UKMeghan Markle’s MasterChef role sparks backlash in Australia as hundreds sign petition
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