MasterChef Season 1 Finishes – What Do You Think?

Well that’s it, no more cut fingers, quivering lips and barely-contained curses.  The first series of Masterchef Ireland is over.

I have to say, I was mightily impressed.  And so, it would seem, are most of the critics, as I haven’t heard the usual cacophony of abuse that is normally levelled against the Irish version of overseas shows.  Quite often justifiably I might add.

The whole thing was a rather classy affair.  The contestants, under enormous stress the rest of us can only have nightmares about, generally kept their cool, only occasionally allowing a well-deserved tear to slip from their eye in front of the cameras.  There was no wailing, crying, hugging, and woe-is-me-stories (I’m looking at you X-Factor).  The judges were relatively articulate, even and light-handed in their criticism, demonstrating that participants in a show don’t have to be reduced to a sobbing heap to make entertaining TV. 

Some time ago, when the PR calls first went out, I wrote a short post here questioning some of the finer details of the application process, notably the line;

“things may be said or done including statements or things which may be a misrepresentation of you or facts relating to you may be offensive to you, defamatory of you or bullying of or abusive of you”

Looking back at the series, I don’t think the lawyers should have worried.

Back then, well-meaning friends urged me to enter, but I declined, citing an unwillingness to make an eejit out of myself of TV as the reason. Well, having watched the series in (almost) its entirety I’d like to add another reason why I’m bloody glad I never applied.  Complete lack of talent. 

The standard on the show was absolutely incredible, from the menu choices, ingredient pairings, technical ability and especially the presentation.  The ‘home cook’ as people like me are kindly called could only look on in wonder.   Yes, I can slap a steak on the pan, but can I prepare a saddle of rabbit after just one demonstration? Er, no.

I’m heartened to hear that the winner, Mary, has decided to embark on a career in the food industry, throwing caution to the wind and pursuing her dream, starting out with this website.  I wish her all the best with it and unmitigated kudos to all the contestants, who impressed the life out of this humble blogger!

What did you guys reckon? Good TV / Bad TV?

Image via www.rte.ie