As the cameras rolled for the eagerly awaited eighth season of MasterChef Junior, new judge Daphne Oz got an exclusive look at a side of Gordon Ramsay most fans don’t get to see. “You get this beautiful side of him, as a father of five, who’s genuinely passionate about guiding kids to explore their love for food,” she revealed in an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly. It’s not just about the competition; it’s about nurturing young talent and helping them grow.
Gordon Ramsay: The Mentor Behind the Mic
Daphne, the former host of The Chew, shared how Gordon Ramsay, now 55, approaches the young contestants with a unique blend of encouragement and constructive criticism. “He inspires the kids to create something truly beautiful,” she explained. The show brings together children aged 8 to 13, challenging them to push their culinary boundaries and showcase their skills. The stakes are high, with a $100,000 prize at the end of the line, but the journey is just as rewarding.
Gordon Ramsay Keeps Everyone on Their Toes
Daphne, 36, couldn’t help but laugh when she described working alongside Gordon. “I have to say, he definitely keeps you on your toes. There’s no room for slacking,” she said. While the legendary chef is known for his sharp critiques, on MasterChef Junior, he tones it down to ensure the kids leave each challenge with valuable lessons. “He gives feedback in a way that empowers them, helping them grow as young chefs,” Daphne added.
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Gentle Critiques That Empower
Daphne highlighted how Gordon balances truth with kindness when critiquing the young chefs. “He’s not holding back on giving an honest evaluation, but he delivers it in a way that’s gentle and supportive,” she said. This approach has a profound impact on the kids. “They’re not intimidated. Instead, they’re hanging on his every word, eager to learn and soak up every bit of knowledge he shares,” the author of The Dorm Room Diet noted. “It’s incredibly empowering to watch them thrive under his guidance.”
Balance and Joy in Motherhood and Work
Daphne, a mother of four—Philomena, Jovan, Domenica, and Giovanna—shared with her husband, John Jovanovic, knows firsthand the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life. “My career is intense right now, and I don’t have the perfect balance I’d like, but I love what I do,” she admitted. “Seeing my kids share in my passion and excitement makes it all worthwhile. They love watching me do what I love.”
For Daphne, the key is cherishing every moment, no matter how hectic. “It’s not always easy, but I wouldn’t trade it for the world,” she said. “I’m grateful to share my journey with my family, and I hope to inspire others to pursue their passions while embracing their roles as parents.”
Hosting 'The Good Dish' with Friends
In addition to her role on MasterChef Junior, Daphne is also the host of The Good Dish, alongside her close friends, Gail Simmons and Jamika Pessoa. “It’s such a privilege to be part of people’s daily lives,” she said. “I cherish the opportunity to connect with viewers and share moments that matter.”
Tune in to The Good Dish weekdays nationwide, and catch the return of MasterChef Junior for its eighth season on Thursday, March 17 at 8 pm ET/PT on FOX.
