‘MasterChef Australia 2017’ judge George Calombaris in trouble; Immunity Challenge tests top 3 contestants

“MasterChef Australia” judge George Calombaris has been charged with assault for losing his cool after the A-League grand final in Sydney. The 38-year-old popular chef, restaurateur and judge shoved a 19-year-old after being heckled by fans. He will appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on June 29.

Calombaris was among the 42,000 odd fans at the Allianz Stadium in Sydney where Sydney FC beat Melbourne Victory in a penalty shootout. News Corp obtained footage of the Network TEN TV personality, a Victory fan, walking on to the field after the match, along with Matt Preston and Shannon Bennett. Then he is seen being heckled by Sydney fans. They were heard shouting phrases from the stand such as “you dodgy bastard” and “pay your staff.” This is when Calombaris loses cool and shoves the fan.

While Calombaris has issued a formal apology, and now regrets how he reacted, he also added that he was utterly shocked by the incident because the banter turned into personal abuse about his family. Calombaris said that he is offended by the fan who yelled out derogatory and offensive comments about his family, reports The Australian.

“While I am not proud of my reaction to the situation, I was offended by a spectator yelling out abusive and derogatory comments about my family. I have spoken to Melbourne Victory FC and Football Federation Australia today to report the situation and I’m truly sorry that this has happened,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Season 9, Episode 8 of “MasterChef Australia 2017” saw the Jarrod Di Blasi Immunity Challenge. During the 32-minute first round, Karlie, Sarah and Eliza were tasked with the preparation of a delicious dinner plate but with only one trip to the pantry. Sarah prepared Pan Friend Barramundi with Bok Choy and Vinaigrette, which was declared the winner of the round, and Sarah advanced to the Jarrod Di Blasi Immunity Challenge. Blasi is the Victorian young chef of the year.

Sarah selected Gary’s Asian ingredients and was able to prepare XO Marinated Steak with Pickled Mushrooms and Potato Mash within 75 minutes. Jarrod’s Sashimi of Whiting with Roast Bone Dressing and Avocado Puree also won a lot of praises. Sarah’s dish was praised too though her marinade and mashed potatoes had the judges divided in their opinion. She received 23 points to 27. “MasterChef Australia 2017” continues Sunday to Thursday on Network TEN, 7:30 p.m. Stay tuned on IBT AU for more updates.