Culinary Showdown: The Celebrity MasterChef 2024 Finalists Revealed

After a grueling six-week competition filled with high-stakes challenges, the Celebrity MasterChef 2024 has reached its grand finale. The three remaining contestants, each with their unique culinary talents, are poised to showcase their skills and impress the esteemed judging panel of John Torode and Gregg Wallace. As the anticipation builds, let's delve into the stories and aspirations of these talented finalists.

Elevating the Ordinary into the Extraordinary

Craig Doyle: The Morning Show Host's Culinary Awakening

Craig Doyle, the familiar face from the popular morning show This Morning, has surprised even himself by making it to the final round of Celebrity MasterChef 2024. Initially unsure of his culinary prowess, Doyle has undergone a remarkable transformation, discovering a newfound passion for the art of cooking. "You just want more and more — so making it to the end is just amazing," he beams, reflecting on his journey.Despite the daunting task ahead, Doyle remains undaunted, embracing the challenge with open arms. "Everything needs to be perfect. I rarely get it all right, and my menu has so much in it, so many elements and different skills and techniques required," he acknowledges. "It's my biggest challenge yet." However, the presenter finds solace in the kitchen, where he can escape the stresses of his busy life. "I have always used cooking as a way of escaping stress and my own head when things get too busy in there. I have terrible problems focusing and concentrating, but in the kitchen I go into a really calm happy place."

Rochenda Sandall: From Small Axe to Big Culinary Dreams

Rochenda Sandall, known for her captivating performance in the acclaimed series Small Axe, has proven that her talents extend beyond the realm of acting. Entering the competition with a modest goal of not being the first to leave, Sandall has surpassed her own expectations, finding herself among the finalists.The actress acknowledges the challenges she has faced, particularly the time constraints of the competition. "Vito... his ingredients are some that I had never seen before and he's an absolutely fabulous baker," she says, recognizing the formidable skills of her fellow finalists. "Craig is such a hearty cook, his food is always so full of flavour and makes you want to go back for seconds and thirds." Despite the fierce competition, Sandall remains gracious and proud of her own accomplishments. "Now I've got to the final three I'm so happy for everyone. We should all be proud of ourselves. We've learnt and achieved so much in such a short amount of time. To top it all off everyone has been fabulous — on and off screen."

Vito Coppola: The Dancer's Culinary Transformation

Vito Coppola, the Strictly Come Dancing professional, has defied expectations by making it to the final round of Celebrity MasterChef 2024. The dancer's journey has been one of self-discovery, as he has pushed himself beyond his comfort zone and found a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking."Being here just doesn't feel real," Coppola admits, still in disbelief at his accomplishment. "I have constantly to pinch myself! I am so, so grateful!" The dancer believes that his time in the MasterChef kitchen has not only honed his culinary skills but has also helped him grow as a person. "It pushed me completely out from my comfort zone and brought much more confidence," he adds. "Food is for me the biggest pleasure in life, but MasterChef is not just about cooking. It's a proper experience and travel, where I had the possibility to discover myself, test myself, challenge myself and mostly be proud of myself."Regardless of the outcome, Coppola is grateful for the opportunity and the personal growth he has experienced. "I will forever be thankful to MasterChef giving me the possibility to appreciate and learn to love myself more."The Celebrity MasterChef 2024 final airs at 9pm on Friday, 20 September on BBC One and iPlayer, where these three finalists will showcase their culinary prowess and vie for the coveted title.