The new season of My Kitchen Rules is set to combine bold flavours, strong personalities and family legacies as six teams battle for culinary glory.
The return of My Kitchen Rules in 2025 brings with it a familiar blend of hearty home cooking, fiery personalities and the competitive edge that has defined the program for more than a decade.
When the new season premieres, audiences can expect not only the drama of the dinner table but also a showcase of heritage, innovation and the enduring role food plays in connecting people across Australia.
Presiding over the competition once again are chefs Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge, whose friendship and culinary expertise have become central to the series. Both judges say the strength of MKR lies in its focus on home cooking rather than fine dining. Manu explains:
“Cooking continues to evolve – in households across Australia and around the world. This year’s MKR contestants bring new recipes, fresh ingredients and innovative tactics and techniques. We’re in for a very interesting season around the dinner table.”
Fassnidge echoes this sentiment, noting the mix of strong personalities and bold ideas that will play out on screen
“There are many different personalities at the table, all firing at 110%,” he says, “Also upping the ante this year, we have some controversial dishes, one in particular that will divide the table and the nation.”
Meet the Six Teams of MKR 2025
Justin and Will – Best Mates, New South Wales
Best friends Justin and Will bonded 12 years ago through their wives and have remained close ever since. Both are fathers who share passions for fitness, food and family. Their cooking styles reflect their cultural backgrounds: Justin draws inspiration from his South African heritage, while Will brings Tongan traditions to the table.
Justin, a gym owner who gained an online following after posting food content for his clients, admits to being “charismatic, extroverted, cheeky and messy in the kitchen.” He describes his food as “big flavour, honest food that puts a smile on your face – no fuss, just made for feeding real people.”
Will, once a professional NRL player with the Wests Tigers and Sydney Roosters, has a more measured approach. “My parents and especially my late father inspired my love of cooking,” he says. “Food plays a significant role in Tongan culture, and we do it in a very rustic way. I remember the feasts we had as kids, including whole pig on the spit, surrounded by sides like Lu sipi, chop suey and raw fish.”
Their team dynamic is described as brotherly, with Justin noting: “We’re passionate and competitive, but we stay in sync. There’s plenty of banter and belief, and we know exactly how to play to each other’s strengths.” Will adds: “Love one day, hate the next, but always committed to each other in the kitchen.”
Anne and Maree – Greek Mum and Daughter, Victoria
Mother-daughter duo Anne and Maree are described as fun-loving, family-oriented and proud of their Greek heritage. Anne, a former beautician, and Maree, a singer and part-time learning assistant, see food as a way to celebrate their family history. They hope one day to publish a cookbook based on recipes from Anne’s late mother.
Anne reflects: “That’s easy: my mum was my heart. She was such a giving, loving mum and her cooking was world-class. My family is Greek with a big emphasis on family, food and lots of laughter.” Maree adds: “My mum and my Yia-yia are my biggest role models when it comes to cooking. We’re Greek, so my influence is very much rooted in our culture.”
Both say they learned their skills by watching previous generations cook. Anne recalls sitting with her mother, asking questions about spices and flavours. Maree remembers helping in the kitchen after school or at her grandmother’s home.
They see their food as a way to share family values with others. “I hope you feel a sense of family, and that you leave our dinner table feeling full, happy and knowing how valued you are,” Anne says. Maree adds: “Food brings people together. Everyone is welcome at our table.”
Michael and Rielli – Opinionated Couple, Victoria
Partners Michael and Rielli met at a pub crawl five years ago and have been together since. Michael, a civil engineer, leans toward bold, meat-driven dishes, while Rielli, a graphic designer, is passionate about pâtisserie and desserts.
Michael describes himself as “positive, driven and always up for a laugh,” and says his approach to cooking is about “big, bold, meat-forward flavours with a focus on quality ingredients cooked from scratch.” He credits both his parents and Rielli for his love of food. “I grew up with hearty, simple, delicious meals that brought people together,” he says.
Rielli explains that she was inspired by watching television programs. “I was completely obsessed with Cake Boss and Planet Cake. That’s where my love of desserts originated. After travelling and trying all different cuisines, I fell in love with all types of food.”
Their teamwork reflects balance, with Michael saying: “I bring the cool, calm and collected energy – and the meat – while Rielli brings the finesse and sweet touch. We lift each other up.”
Maria and Bailey – Boss Friends, South Australia
Friends Maria and Bailey share a strong-willed, competitive relationship they describe as sibling-like. Maria, originally from Greece, runs her own cookie and brownie business. She says she is “passionate, driven and a little stubborn – in the best way.” She is self-taught, having learned by watching cooking shows, researching on YouTube and experimenting in the kitchen.
Bailey, a former ballet dancer who now works as a general manager and bodybuilding federation organiser, is direct and confident. “I am very direct and happy to say it as it is. Incredibly honest – maybe too much. People often say I don’t say a lot, but when I do, it tends to cut deep.”
While Bailey is new to cooking, Maria has been his teacher. “I taught him how to cook a few years ago, and now we have found a great balance: he talks, I do. He brings the energy and confidence, and I bring the heart and food.” Bailey admits: “One of us is the boss and the other had better listen or you’re in trouble. (I’m the one in trouble.)”
Lol and Lil – Besties, Queensland
Lol and Lil have been best friends since childhood, calling themselves cousins due to their mothers’ close friendship. Both work in pest-control administration but are now stepping into the kitchen with the aim of showing they are more than just entertainers.
Lol, who has never left Queensland, says her grandmother was her biggest influence. “I was in the kitchen with her for as long as I can remember and learned so much from her.” She describes herself as “loud, bubbly, kind, emotional and a little chaotic.”
Lil, who grew up inspired by cooking shows, says: “Cooking for my friends and family brings me so much joy.” She sees herself as “bright and bubbly.”
They view their style as a mix of hearty, global-inspired dishes. Their team dynamic is intentionally playful, described by Lol as “fun and chaotic in the best way.” Lil agrees: “Just like our Instant Restaurant name, Sugar, Spice & Everything Nice. We complement each other and balance each other perfectly.”
Mel and Jacinta – Feisty Cousins, New South Wales
Cousins Mel and Jacinta bring a focus on nutritious yet satisfying meals. Jacinta has a background in nutritional medicine and specialises in vegan and gluten-free cooking, while Mel adapts traditional favourites such as prawn cocktails with healthier twists.
Mel describes her cooking as “surprisingly healthy and creative, blending bold flavours with wholesome ingredients.” Jacinta calls hers “wholesome, vibrant and Mediterranean-inspired.”
Both emphasise accessibility and affordability. “Healthy food can be absolutely delicious,” says Mel. “With a little creativity, you can enjoy vibrant, flavour-packed meals that nourish your body and satisfy your cravings.” Jacinta adds: “It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It can be simple, joyful and one of the most powerful ways to care for yourself and others.”
Their partnership is defined by energy and laughter, but also structure. Jacinta admits: “I’m the messy one, full of passion and spontaneity, while Mel is the calm, strategic one who keeps us focused and on track.”
The season promises a mix of family recipes, cultural traditions and new takes on familiar favourites. For Feildel, the fundamentals of cooking remain central. He argues that great home cooks must master basics such as sauces, stocks and seasoning, while also showing restraint. “Stop trying to show off, keep it simple and make it delicious,” he advises contestants.
Fassnidge also highlights the importance of consistency and communication, warning teams against complacency. “The biggest mistake is sitting on your laurels; if you do well, you can’t just sit back. You must take each day as it comes, and each day is a battle.”
This year’s group of contestants brings diverse stories to the kitchen table. From a mother and daughter honouring their Greek heritage to lifelong friends stepping well outside their comfort zone, the competition is set to combine humour, heart and high-pressure cooking. Personal connections to food – whether through family traditions, cultural roots or personal passions – are expected to shape the way dishes are presented and received.
The ultimate test remains who can adapt under pressure and deliver flavour on the plate. As the competition progresses, the strongest teams will make their way to Kitchen HQ to battle it out for the $100,000 prize and the title of MKR champions.
I’ve been trying to contact ch10 but no answer & I was just wandering if you guys knew WHY Days stopped being uploaded to 10play app since Thursday?!!
Coz alot of aussie Days fans are very annoyed that the other 3 soaps had episodes but DAYS didn’t?!!! Why?!!! There has to be a reason why they would just stop airing the new episodes coz without fail its always added by 9:15am every Tuesday to Saturday… it just doesn’t make any sense?!!!! We need answers!!!!
Watched last night No more . Set up to have arrogant idiots on the show. Any reason why mkr cannot have a civil cooking show without nasty comments . We all know it is a set up . Good luck I am out
Gayle Debra …disgusted with Michael’s rude comments to the girls regarding where they live,also disappointed with Channel 7 for airing such comments.
When will the saucy divorcess appear on my kitchen rules/ on 2026.
This show is meant to be about cooking skills not obnoxious overbearing idiots. Are they paid to participate. Not what I watch this show for. Do you always have to have horrible people taking other people down. Seems like it is staged! Was a lovely show once. Even made the Qld news with the mayor of Logan. One more night! Not what people want to see.
Lynelle Schrader I can’t believe that wanker/ idiot put Logan down I’ve lived here 10 years and haven’t had any problems at all
Carmel Ann just another suburb of the beautiful Qld we live in.
Lynelle Schrader yeah it sure is
Carmel Ann Evans Carmel the Logan girls are cooking next. Hope they thrash them. They Seem like lovely wholesome young ladies.
Lynelle Schrader yes they are and i think they do thrash them
Lynelle Schrader they do seem like they are lovely young wholesome ladies
Sandra Nadort I agree
Sandra I just find it so annoying. They must look for people and maybe pay them to be part of the show. Probably don’t even cook. Are we meant to find it enjoyable because of the bickering. Detracts from the chef’s reputations.
Just watching MKR.thinking when you are preparing and serving food shouldn’t they at least put their hair up ….would hate to find a hair in my food
Lesley Smith so am I I’ve lived in Logan for 10 years and I haven’t had any problems at all living here how dare he put logan down
Stella Kamitsou yep too many
Jacinta should never be on the show, it’s an insult to everyone
Cant stand that michael he doesnt shut up about her not eating meat
Michael reminds me of the BBQ boys last year and we all know what happened there
Carmel Ann Evans ..I live in Logan too Carmel, and like you, love living here…I think he is terribly nasty..
Lesley Smith I totally agree he is very nasty
Ann Hopkins Jacinta could at least taste meat dishes during the competition. I have a sneaking suspicion that she’s on MKR to boost her business interests.
Sandra Nadort in the past episodes many have gone on the show to promote their business and in the hope they win the prize money.. many just want to be on a TV reality show, which has been shown before in past episodes. It’s difficult to watch at times, especially all the nonsense that goes on between the contestants. Some want fame, some want the money some want to promote themselves And/ or their business. I’m all for people not eating meat, but to put oneself into a cooking /tasting show just seems absurd. The producers would have known and were happy to have a bit of controversy to get ratings.
Wash the fruit before you use it.
Ann Hopkins AGREE💯
Hobart’s 6 Oclock Rock That’s hardly fair!
Everyone is so nice except Mel & jacinda they are very rude & trouble makers,I really hope they fail when it’s there turn to cook as there nothing but snakes& I think that Mel loves showing her fake boobs to world, cannot wait to see them there shit food fail big time,stuck up scum
Chris Mitch Ryder that’s exactly what they want.
mel and Jacinta ugly ugly women!
Jacinta’s smirk, side head and swallowing her lips is smug and vile! Everything is see her do this i think karma will bite her attitude!!
Gayle Debra Michael is an absolute wanker. You think he would listen with such big ears. His partner is a weirdo as well.
Ann Hopkins It has been the script for years; one nasty pair, one sweet, one from the far regions etc etc ; even the confrontations are staged; it is more a bitching competition than a culinary competition.
Stephen Mumme Totally. He talks the SAME shit EVERY episode, e.g. ‘the bogans from Logan’ ‘Jacinta doesn’t eat meat!’
I wish that he’d change the bloody record!
Unfortunately 6 nasty Toxic people
I have watched MKR for the last time. I can not believe how nasty some of the teams are.
Michael is a big douche bag that cant cook so he’s doin “research” to try and taddle. If you’re so good you shouldn’t be bothered by anyone!
What right has Michael got to investigate the credentials of the other contestants
He such an arrogant two faced individual whose sole purpose is to discredit and humiliate the other participants. Hoe he falls on his sword.