Celebrity MasterChef fans issue Joe Pasquale warning after gruelling injury

BBC viewers rushed to social media to issue major warnings during the 2026 return of Celebrity MasterChef. On Tuesday (August 18), the first episode of series 21 aired with judge Grace Dent being joined by co-judge and acclaimed Italian chef Giorgio Locatelli. They welcomed a new star-studded line-up of celebrities ready to take the heat, this included comedian Joe Pasquale, singer Jay McGuiness and Love Islands Shakira Khan, Olympian Emily Campbell and radio presenter Jason Mohammad.

As the cooking got underway, disaster struck when Joe injured himself while preparing his signature dish, Frankensence pie, inspired by his passion for horror films. His complicated dish comprised sprawling 32 ingredients to make the beef pie, red wine gravy, carrots, fennel and cheese and horseradish mash. By the time Grace and Giorgio reach his workstation, Joe has already sliced his fingers twice. Upon seeing his fingers wrapped in blue plaster, fans quickly took to X to react, as one warned: "I hope whoever has to eat Joes dish doesnt find a lost finger in it."

As another remarked: "If Joe gets to the end with any fingers left, it will be a minor miracle!"

While one questioned: "Jesus Christ, has Joe actually got any fingers left?!"

"Joe is first up with blood and chopped up tips of his fingers included in his Frankenstein dish," added a fourth.

After the judges came up to the comedian's workstation, Joe told them: "Hi, Im living on the edge," to which Grace noticed: "Youve got two injuries already."

"Dont worry, Ill be in plaster by the end of the week," the celebrity contestant joked.

Giorgio suggested Joes chopping board could be the issue and pointed out that it is covered with too many ingredients. Prompting Joe to respond: "Its called Frankenstein Pie, you cant do it without blood."

As the episode continued, the star held up his right hand in the air as blood poured from his thumb and asked: "Can I have another plaster, please? This is a Sweeney Todd Pie!"

Despite the disasters, Joe's dish was highly praised, as the decorated Italian chef admitted: "I was very worried that the pastry wouldn't cook enough and the whole thing would collapse. It didn't happen.

After having a bite, Giorgio added: "I love this juicy gravy. It's a very comforting dish." While Grace raved: "This food is full of heart."