My Kitchen Rules Faces Backlash Over Scripted Claims and Poor Contestant Performances in 2024 Season
The 2024 season of My Kitchen Rules premiered to mixed reviews, with some viewers expressing dissatisfaction over perceived scripting. In the latest episode, siblings Danny and Sonia received the lowest score with their poorly executed dishes, including a failed dessert. Criticism of the show's authenticity has intensified, echoing concerns over its declining viewership since its return in 2022.
My Kitchen Rules makes its return to television with a fresh season in 2024, but not without facing criticism from some viewers regarding the authenticity of the program. The latest episode featured siblings Danny and Sonia from Townsville, who struggled to impress with their pub-themed Instant Restaurant.
Danny and Sonia's Opening Night Fails to Impress Judging Panel
In the Monday episode, Danny and Sonia presented their pub-inspired restaurant called The Broasis, but their meal offerings did not resonate well with the judges. The duo received a disappointing score of 56 out of 110, placing them at the bottom of the MKR leaderboard. Their menu included Townsville mud crab with mango chili dip for entrée and a main of filet mignon accompanied by garlic prawn toppers, beer-battered wedges, and bacon broccoli salad. The situation worsened when Danny disregarded Judge Colin Fassnidge's instructions, resulting in the improper preparation of the expensive cut of meat. Judge Manu Feildel criticized the steak, comparing it to 'a piece of wet cardboard,' while Colin pointed out that their attempt to offer too much had backfired.
Problems with Dessert Bring Further Disappointment
The duo's troubles continued as their espresso martini trifle dessert failed to set properly, further diminishing their chance of advancing in the competition. An emotionally distraught Danny expressed his regret for letting Sonia down, while she reassured him of his importance in her participation. She stated, 'He didn't need to come here with me, and he did. That will forever matter.'
Viewer Reactions to the Season Premiere
As the episode aired, many viewers took to social media to voice their discontent with the show’s perceived lack of authenticity. Comments shared on X included frustrations over the seemingly staged interactions, with one viewer remarking about the disconnect from genuine cooking competition. Others expressed their disappointment at the format, comparing it unfavorably to other cooking shows and calling for a return to simpler culinary challenges.
Declining Viewer Numbers Indicate Underlying Issues
Since returning to screens, My Kitchen Rules has seen a decline in viewership. The premiere of its 13th season in September 2023 attracted only 470,000 viewers across major cities and did not finish among the top ten most-watched programs for the night. This is in stark contrast to the show's past when it consistently drew over a million viewers per episode. Following its cancellation in 2020, MKR made a comeback in 2022 but has struggled to regain its former audience. A source revealed that the show remains under scrutiny, with speculations about its longevity in the competitive television landscape.
My Kitchen Rules airs every Tuesday at 7:30 PM on Channel 7 and 7plus, as it attempts to navigate through these challenging circumstances.
