Monica Galetti to return as MasterChef: The Professionals judge

Monica Galetti is to return as a judge on MasterChef: The Professionals this year following a short break.

The chef announced she was temporarily stepping back from the show in 2022 to focus on her family and London restaurant Mere, which she runs alongside her husband David.

Galetti was replaced on the show by Anna Haugh, chef patron of Myrtle in London's Chelsea.

Announcing the news on Instagram today, Galetti wrote: "A year ago I made the tough call to take a break from Masterchef The Professionals. I'm so grateful for everyone's support that allowed me time out to get back on top of managing business and family commitments.

"I'm delighted to say that I am able to come back to MasterChef: The Professionals this year and I'm super thrilled to see what new talent is out there & to be back with my buddies @greggawallace and @marcuswareing – link to enter is on the @masterchefuk profile – see you there!"

In a comment on Galetti's post Haugh wrote that it was "great to see you back in the driving seat".

The official MasterChef Twitter account thanked Haugh for overseeing last year's competition and said she would return as a guest judge on the 2023 edition of the amateur series.

Galetti has been part of MasterChef for 15 years, working first with Michel Roux Jr and Gregg Wallace and later Marcus Wareing.