John Douglas Torode

John Torode is an Australian-British celebrity chef, restaurateur, and TV presenter best known for co-hosting MasterChef UK on BBC One from 2005. He is also a cookbook author and co-host of John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen.

Overview

John Douglas Torode's Profile

John Torode was born on 23 July 1965 in Melbourne, Australia. His mother died when he was young, and he spent part of his childhood living with his grandmother, who introduced him to cooking.

He began his culinary career at age 16, attending catering college and working in restaurants in Australia before moving to the UK in 1991. There, he worked for the Conran Group and developed his reputation as a chef.

Torode first appeared on UK television as a chef on This Morning (ITV) in the 1990s. He rose to national prominence when he became co-presenter of MasterChef UK on BBC One in 2005, helping relaunch the format alongside Gregg Wallace.

Alongside television, he owned restaurants including Smiths of Smithfield and The Luxe, and authored several cookbooks. He later co-presented John and Lisa’s Weekend Kitchen with his wife on ITV.

He lives in the UK with his family and continues to work in food media, publishing, and broadcasting.

Quick Facts

1
TV Shows

0
Current Hosts

20
Years Active

50
Awards Won

TV Shows​

A list of television shows hosted by this host, including current programs and previous presenting roles.

Networks

A list of Networks that this host has worked for.

Personal Life

Family, relationships and background

  • Marriage Angela Torode from to (Ex-wife)
  • Marriage Jessica Torode from 2000 to 2014 (Ex-wife)
  • Marriage from to ()
  • Marriage Lisa Faulkner from 2019 to (Current wife)
  • Casper Torode, a biological child with Angela Torode, born in
  • Marselle Torode, a biological child with Angela Torode, born in
  • Jonah Torode, a biological child with Jessica Torode, born in
  • Lulu Torode, a biological child with Jessica Torode, born in
  • Billie Torode, a stepchild child with Lisa Faulkner, born in

Education

Educational background and qualifications

  • Left school to attend catering college
  • Gained early culinary training through apprenticeships in Melbourne and London kitchens

Net Worth & Income

Income sources, net worth, and properties.

  • Income accumulated from hosting Masterchef UK and other cooking shows on television
  • Revenue from restaurant ownership - Smiths of Smithfield and The Luxe
  • Earnings from cookbook sales - he has authored over ten cookbooks
  • Earnings from documentary appearances and other food media work

Awards

Awards & recognition