MasterChef dedicates semi-final to late star and food critic Charles Campion

MasterChef fans have been left emotional after the latest episode of the cooking show was dedicated to late star and food critic Charles Campion.

Campion died in December last year just before Christmas, with fans and friends of the star left heartbroken.

The food journalist became well known to MasterChef viewers as a regular critic on the amateur, professional and celebrity editions. 

On the latest episode, the semi-finalists were challenged to impress critics Grace Dent, Jay Rayner and Jimi Famurewa.

At the end of the episode, a message read: ‘Tonight’s Critics Table semi-final is dedicated to the late great food critic Charles Campion who sadly passed away at the end of 2020.

‘Charles’s wit, technical culinary knowledge and passion for great British ingredients and dishes will be sorely missed – as will his legendary love for some old fashioned carbs on the plate.’

The tribute was also tweeted from the MasterChef account, with the caption: ‘In memory of our friend Charles Campion #MasterChefUK.’

Fans were left emotional at the tribute, with one writing on Twitter: ‘Sad to hear that Charles Campion had passed away late last year, a legendary figure on #MasterChefUK.’

‘Nice to see a tribute to Charles Campion tonight, will miss his comments,’ another said, while one more added: ‘Nice touch to remember the late Charles Campion.’

Campion’s family confirmed his death in December 2020.

His daughter Ashley tweeted: ‘Sadly my father Charles Campion passed away on the 23rd December 2020.

‘He was a brilliant father, friend and husband. Everyone who came into contact with him came away a little better for it. Love you Dad!’

Campion wrote columns, articles and restaurant reviews for The Times, The Independent and the Evening Standard during his career as a critic, after leaving his job in advertising.

The food journalist became well known to MasterChef viewers as a regular critic on the amateur, professional and celebrity editions. 

The writer was beloved for his dislike of pretentious food and terms, preferring traditional food made well and a classic gravy rather than a ‘jus’.

Campion was also hailed for championing smaller restaurants around the UK.

MasterChef continues on BBC One at 9pm on Friday.

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