Masterchef Season 9 - Episode 1 May 2026

: A fan favorite who placed 8th and later returned for Season 12: Back to Win .

Several chefs who debuted in this episode went on to have significant careers: MasterChef Season 9 - Episode 1

: A montage revealed several other successful auditions: Team Gordon : Stephanie and Ashley. Team Aarón : Lindsay and Juni. Team Joe : Sal. 🌟 Notable Contestants from Episode 1 : A fan favorite who placed 8th and

Watch the intense moment contestants fight for their spot in the MasterChef kitchen: Team Joe : Sal

: Alecia, Darrick, and Tye had to cook a variation of a Ramsay classic. Darrick secured Gordon’s apron, while Alecia went to Team Aarón.

: Each judge had only eight aprons to hand out.

: Both cooked chicken dishes. Joe gave an apron to Gerron Hurt (who would eventually win the season), while Gordon and Aarón fought over Farhan. Farhan ultimately chose Team Aarón.