Not every reality-TV show needs judges. Big Brother, for example, and Survivor are shows that found success by making the contestants and/or the public pass judgment. But when a show is designed as a test of skill rather than a test of who is the least obnoxious member of the cast, someone has to bring a modicum of expertise to the table.

Which, in the case of MasterChef, is, of course, literally a table.

After the tragic death of Jock Zonfrillo and the departure of Melissa Leong, the MasterChef judging team has been rejigged for 2024, with Andy Allen the only remainder from past years. Joining him on the newly expanded four-person panel are former MasterChef crowd favourite Poh Ling Yeow, food writer Sofia Levin, and Michelin-starred French chef Jean-Christophe Novelli.

It’s a tough gig. Reality-TV judges need to shine as individuals, bring personality and charisma as the faces of the show, and at the same time know when and how to step back and let the contestants shine. Hog the spotlight and people will decry you as a show-off taking the gloss off the real stars. But stay out of it too much, and viewers will wonder where is the show’s identity.

So, in these early days, how is the new judging configuration on MasterChef going? Allen is, of course, a known quantity. His blokey persona and “bloody awesome, mate” shtick can be wearisome, but he brings authentic enthusiasm and a complete lack of pretension to the role, and, importantly, provides a point of continuity with the past, which is crucial for a show that touts its history the way MasterChef does.

Yeow, also, while being new to judging, provides an element of familiarity. Her flamboyance and excitable style was a hallmark of her appearances as a contestant, and she’s carried that into her position of authority. Her dropped jaw, raucous laugh and spectacular outfits have already become a staple of the show.

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Of the two complete MasterChef newbies, Novelli is there to provide the touch of class. With a culinary CV far outstripping any of his colleagues, his presence is a signal to viewers that this competition really is serious: Look, we’ve got a Frenchman to prove it! With his smooth Gallic tones and flirtatious banter with contestants, Novelli injects proceedings with a dose of European flair that is most welcome.

Perhaps his greatest asset, however, is his willingness to work outside the simple Michelin-man box. It would be easy for a judge of his pedigree to stand back and play the cool, detached observer. But there’s nothing aloof about his approach: he engages meaningfully with the contestants, forging a personal connection as well as a gastronomic one. And most impressively, he willingly steps in to provide practical help and advice to the amateurs as they work. Not for him are the raised eyebrow and suggestive aside – here is a master chef quite happy to share his expertise with anyone who needs it. One can imagine how much this means to the players.