MasterChef Australia versus MasterChef US
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Having watched the entire Season 2 of MasterChef Australia last year, I was ecstatic to realize that there was a US version of the hit reality show. With Gordon Ramsey as one of the judges, I thought to myself that this had to be a hit, right? I couldn't have been more wrong.
To say that I was disappointed in MasterChef US - Season 1 is an understatement. However, on the bright side, it's refreshing to realize that a reality TV series from another country other than that of the US, has managed to provide much better entertainment and viewing pleasure for a change (in my opinion).
Based on both shows airing in 2010, MasterChef Australia - Season 2, and MasterChef US - Season 1, here are my reasons:
- MasterChef Australia had 84 episodes, while MasterChef US only had 8 episodes.
- Gary, George and Matt are far more entertaining than Gordon Ramsey and his team of judges.
- I think MasterChef Australia's Recipe website -http://www.masterchef.com.au/recipes.htm is better than that of MasterChef US http://www.fox.com/masterchef/recipes/signature-dish/recipe-1.
- The contestants are more relatable and easier to like on MasterChef Australia. On the US version, possibly due to there only being 8 episodes - there's no time to get to know the contestants. I didn't find myself sitting on the edge of my seat waiting for my favourite to go through, but rather reaching for the remote to change the channel.
- The manner in which the contestants are told that their food is terrible on the US version is in my opinion, quite disgusting. Sure, the producers are probably looking for some sort of entertainment factor seen as the judges bring none of this, but being outright rude in order to up ratings, really leaves a bad taste in my mouth. We have enough of that on American Idol or the X-Factor and at least those shows are entertaining in other ways without putting someone down for fun.
Having looked at the highlights online for Season 2 of MasterChef US I can see that there are at least 20 episodes, so I'm looking forward to giving it another try when it airs in South Africa. Until then, I guess I'll have to be satisfied while holding thumbs for our very own MasterChef South Africa, airing 20 March 2012 - http://mnet.dstv.com/category/shows/masterchef-south-africa/
MasterChef South Africa - Update
Last night (20 March 2012) was the opening episode of MasterChef South Africa. After watching the US version and being let down, I wasn't sure what to expect - but, I was very pleasantly surprised! I'm very proud of what's been put together. There are some very interesting contestants, and quite entertaining judges who seem to know what they're talking about. I'll update with a video as soon as there's something new available.
Meet the Contestants of Season 2
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I agree with you there. Although I find him very entertaining to watch on Kitchen Nightmares, something just didn't come across well with him on MasterChef. I think they should have chosen an American Chef to host the US version.
I totally agree. I too like watching masterchef australia
Thanks for stopping by :) Looking forward to Season 3!
Though I wasn't the most loyal follower, I have seen quite a lot of episodes for Masterchef Australia. I just love the way George and Gary interact with each other and with the contestants. Matt I liked a little less; you can't always have it all ;)
I haven't seen Masterchef US, but with Gordon Ramsay, I can imagine how rude a show it must have been. Sometimes I wonder whether it is partially a play for him, as his trademark, or that he, in fact, is such an ass as he appears to be.
Voting up and sharing!
Thanks Robin! :) I must admit, I'm not a huge Matt fan either. But, I quite enjoy watching shows where there's at least one person I don't particularly like - keeps things interesting (and ratings up I imagine!) Same thing with Gordon Ramsey. I doubt he's like that in person, we'll probably never know - but I'm still a huge Kitchen Nightmares fan. Can you imagine anyone else doing that show?! :)
Haha, it'd probably be quite boring when you like everything about a show! And you're right, who else could do Kitchen Nightmares. He can really pull people back to reality sometimes. But contestants at Masterchef are motivated already, so then it'd be just annoying when he does his act.
I *love* Gordon Ramsay on Kitchen Nightmares, but can't imagine him as one third of a "team" of judges! He's not, and never has been, a team player. The prima dona gene that makes him a treat to watch on KN does not allow him to play well with others. I haven't seen either version of MasterChef, but think I'd prefer MasterChef Australia! ;D
JamaGenee, absolutely! I'm a huge Gordon Ramsay fan as well, but I will definently NOT be watching a US version of MasterChef again! A prima dona - that he is indeed, and why he makes such good TV (and strangely enough, comes a cross as so likable to his audience!)
Yes, amazing how he comes across as a really caring individual on Kitchen Nightmares! The icing on the cake is when he changes from street clothes into his chef's jacket on camera and takes "eye candy" to a whole new level. ;D
I loved the MasterChef US TV show, and can't wait for the new season. It makes me want to cook something new everytime I watch it! Thanks for the Hub!
Hi kjrzeek1 - Gordon Ramsey certainly adds appeal to the US version, maybe I was expecting too much after watching the Australian version. I'll give it another go when it shows in SA next! Thanks for reading :)
RedSturtz Level 1 Commenter 3 months ago
I love the Australian version. Glad we don't have Gordon Ramsay, he can be extremely rude sometimes!