Thomas Frake Wins MasterChef Champion Of Champions 2025

The winner of the MasterChef Champion Of Champions 2025 was announced on December 29, as former host John Torode made his final appearance on the popular cooking show. Torode’s presence comes five months after he was dismissed by the BBC due to allegations of inappropriate language during filming. Despite denying any wrongdoing, Torode, along with co-host Gregg Wallace, has faced significant scrutiny since their departures.

In the festive finale, Thomas Frake, who first gained recognition as the MasterChef champion in 2020, outperformed competitors Natalie Coleman (2013 winner), Chariya Khattiyot (2023 champion), and Brin Pirathapan (2024 victor). The show featured previous winners battling for the coveted title, with Frake ultimately securing victory in a spectacular display of culinary talent.

During the judges’ deliberations, Torode expressed his admiration for the dishes presented, stating, “I need to be truthful, that was probably the best food I’ve ever eaten in the history of MasterChef. That was extraordinary.” Frake, visibly moved, responded, “This feels amazing. I’m grateful more than anything. MasterChef is what got me onto this journey in the first place. To come along five years later and be validated that my food was worthy again of another trophy is incredibly special. The first trophy will stay at home, this trophy is going straight to my pub.”

Torode praised Frake’s passion for British cuisine, remarking, “Thomas’ love of great British food and what he likes to call pub grub, is so infectious that it’s only when you eat his food that you understand what sort of cook he’s become since he’s left the competition.” Grace Dent, co-hosting the final with Torode, added, “Thomas Frake is a fascinating chef. He cooks crowd-pleasers absolutely beautifully with loads of finesse and that’s why Thomas is our champion of champions.”

Audience reactions to Torode’s return were overwhelmingly positive. Fans took to social media, expressing their delight at seeing him on screen again. One viewer on X wrote, “Delighted to see John Torode present MasterChef Champions of Champions this evening.” Another added, “Getting rid of John was a big mistake by @MasterChefUK and @BBCOne! Him and Grace are actually a really good pairing – they work brilliantly together!”

As Torode bids farewell to MasterChef, uncertainty looms over his future projects. Insiders have indicated that his show, Weekend Kitchen, which he co-hosts with wife Lisa Faulkner, may be put on hold. A source told The Sun, “John is facing a nervous wait about Weekend Kitchen but it’s not looking good. The commissioning team have still not made a decision. Budgets are being slashed and the show is expensive to make.”

While Torode navigates this challenging period, he remains focused on his new YouTube cooking series, which has received positive feedback. Initially, ITV supported Torode following his dismissal from the BBC, but the future remains uncertain as he prepares for the next steps in his career.

The MasterChef Champion Of Champions finale not only crowned a new champion but also marked the end of an era for Torode, leaving fans and culinary enthusiasts reflecting on his significant contributions to the show.