Who's cooking? Meet the contestants of My Kitchen Rules 2025

A fresh season of My Kitchen Rules (MKR) will return to Seven and 7plus at 7.30pm on Monday, 1 September, bringing with it new teams, familiar judges, and a continued focus on celebrating the heart of Australian home cooking.

This year, MKR is positioning itself as more than just a cooking competition.

The series will highlight “real kitchens, real stories and unforgettable flavours”, giving viewers a window into the family traditions, cultural influences, and personal journeys behind each dish.

Contestants will showcase everything from recipes passed down through generations to inventive takes on well-known classics.

Meet the contestants

Justin and Will, NSW
How would they describe their team dynamic? "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."

Anne and Marie, VIC
How would they describe their cooking style? Anne: "Greek all the way!" Maree: "Delicious and full of flavour."

Maria and Bailey, SA
How would they describe their personalities? Maria: "Passionate, driven and a little stubborn – in the best way!" Bailey: "An extroverted introvert. I am very direct and happy to say it as it is."

Michael and Rielli, VIC
How would they describe their team dynamic? "We balance each other out and lift each other up."

Lol and Lil, QLD
How would they describe their cooking styles in one sentence? Lol: "Our cooking style takes you around
the world." Lil: "Hearty, home-cooked food."

Mel and Jacinta, NSW
How would they describe their team dynamic? "Fun, a little chaotic in the best way, and genuinely supportive."

Judges return to the table

Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge return as co-hosts and judges, bringing their long-established rapport to the table. The duo are described as “united by friendship and a shared passion for discovering Australia’s top home culinary talent.”

Their role extends beyond scoring meals, they act as mentors, encouraging contestants to balance creativity with execution under pressure.

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