MasterChef final is cancelled tonight after BBC clears schedule for Prince Philip tributes
By Twisted
09 Apr 2021
2m
The 2021 MasterChef final has been cancelled after the death of Prince Philip.
According to the BBC, all non-news programming, including the popular primetime cooking show will be suspended.
A special news service, covering the Duke’s death has replaced the scheduled programming on the BBC and other terrestrial channels.
This year’s MasterChef final is suspended (Credit: BBC)
MasterChef final cancelled
The BBC decided to change its plans after news of Prince Philip’s death broke earlier today. The series 17 final, featuring cooks Alexina, Tom and Mike, would have been broadcast at 8.30pm tonight, April 9.
However, due to the unforeseen tragedy, the broadcaster has instead opted to replace all scheduled programming with a special extended news service dedicated to The Duke.
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Today’s news has not just affected MasterChef. Other entertainment programmes, including EastEnders, The One Show and Great British Menu have also been delayed.
Besides the BBC, broadcasters such as ITV have also made changes to their schedule. However, according to the Radio Times, at the time of writing, other shows such as The Simpsons on Channel 4 are currently scheduled to go ahead.
It remains unclear at this time when the final will eventually air. We will update this article as soon as we have more information about the change in programming.
HRH Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, died peacefully this morning (Credit: Alamy/Brian Harris)
How did Prince Philip die?
In an official statement, the Royal Family confirmed that Prince Philip passed away peacefully this morning. As a post on social media explained:
“It is with deep sorrow that Her Majesty The Queen has announced the death of her beloved husband, His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
“His Royal Highness passed away peacefully this morning at Windsor Castle.
“The Royal Family join with people around the world in mourning his loss.”
His Royal Highness had been ill earlier this year, and recently underwent a lengthy stay in hospital.
Born in 1921, Prince Philip married Queen Elizabeth in 1947. The pair were together for 74 years, and his death at the age of 99 makes him the oldest ever royal consort.
Since his death, tributes have poured in from around the world. The current BBC news special is set to run continuously into the early hours of tomorrow morning.
