ITV Fail to Mention John Torode’s Cooking Show in Latest Schedule Announcement After Vowing to Stand by Axed MasterChef Star

ITV’s recent announcement of its 2026 weekend schedule has sparked surprise and disappointment among fans of John Torode, the well-known chef and former MasterChef presenter. Despite ITV’s earlier commitment to stand by John Torode following his controversial exit from the BBC’s MasterChef, the network’s new lineup conspicuously excludes his popular cooking show, Weekend Kitchen with John and Lisa. Instead, ITV is placing its focus on other celebrated chefs such as James Martin, Ainsley Harriott, and Prue Leith, who are set to take centre stage in the upcoming schedule.

John Torode’s Weekend Kitchen Show Missing from ITV’s 2026 Weekend Lineup

John Torode, alongside his wife Lisa Faulkner, has been a staple of ITV’s weekend morning programming since the launch of Weekend Kitchen in 2019. The show, which airs at 11:40 am on Saturdays, has been praised for its approachable recipes and the warm chemistry between John and Lisa. However, the latest schedule announcement for 2026 fails to mention the show entirely, leaving many viewers wondering about its future.

This omission is particularly striking given ITV’s previous public support for John Torode after his departure from MasterChef on the BBC amid allegations that stirred significant media attention. ITV had vowed to stand by the chef, signaling confidence in his continued appeal and talent. Yet, the absence of Weekend Kitchen in the new schedule suggests a shift in programming priorities.

Focus Shifts to James Martin, Ainsley Harriott, and Prue Leith

While John Torode’s show is missing, ITV is doubling down on other culinary personalities. James Martin’s Saturday Morning show has been extended to a two-and-a-half-hour slot, running until midday. This extension reflects the strong ratings and viewer engagement the show has garnered, making it a cornerstone of ITV’s weekend offerings.

Following James Martin, Ainsley Harriott is set to debut a new 30-minute series titled Ainsley’s Taste of the Bahamas. This show promises to explore the vibrant flavors and rich culinary heritage of the Caribbean, adding a fresh and exotic dimension to ITV’s cooking lineup.

Additionally, Prue Leith, another familiar face from MasterChef, continues to be a prominent figure on the network. Her expertise and engaging presence remain a key part of ITV’s culinary programming strategy.

What This Means for John Torode and His Fans

The exclusion of Weekend Kitchen from ITV’s 2026 schedule raises questions about the future of John Torode’s television career on the network. Fans of the chef and his wife Lisa Faulkner have expressed concern and disappointment on social media, highlighting the show’s loyal following and the unique appeal it brought to weekend mornings.

Industry insiders speculate that the decision may be influenced by ITV’s desire to capitalize on the proven success of James Martin and the fresh appeal of Ainsley Harriott’s new series. However, the lack of official communication regarding John Torode’s status leaves room for uncertainty.

Despite this, John Torode remains a respected figure in the culinary world, with numerous projects and appearances beyond Weekend Kitchen. His dedication to sharing accessible and delicious recipes continues to resonate with audiences across various platforms.

Conclusion

ITV’s latest schedule announcement has clearly shifted the spotlight away from John Torode’s Weekend Kitchen show, despite earlier assurances of support following his MasterChef exit. With James Martin, Ainsley Harriott, and Prue Leith taking centre stage in the 2026 weekend lineup, fans are left wondering what lies ahead for John Torode on ITV. If you’re a fan of John Torode or simply love cooking shows, stay tuned for updates and be sure to explore the exciting new offerings from ITV’s culinary stars. Don’t miss out—subscribe to our newsletter for the latest TV schedule news and chef updates!