Mailtand’s Masterchef contestant Andy Allen.
The family of Maitland’s Masterchef contestant Andy Allen are living with a secret that is hard to keep.
Peter and Maree Allen of East Maitland have been sworn to secrecy about their son’s progress on the country’s top rating television program.
It is the only hour of television they never miss and even though they know in advance where their son is placed during every cook-off, they’re not permitted to say a word.
As proud as they are of their son, his cooking skills and advancement in the contest, they cannot tell anyone what is happening.
The Mercury can reveal that Allen, 23 and an apprentice electrician, has not played for his beloved Maitland Mustangs basketball team at all this season. This may point to some success so far on the show, which could be life-changing – but no-one can be sure. And with the family having signed a confidentiality agreement – part of the deal before entering the show – they can’t tell anyone. Mum’s the word.
Other contestants who have done well in the competition or were an audience favourite, have gone on to produce their own television shows, cook books and celebrity appearances.
As far as the Allen family is concerned, Andy is the complete package.
He is a popular sportsman, athletic, handsome, stylish and considered a dish among the women who love Tweeting about the show.
The Masterchef contestant profile reveals that he is incredibly close to his family and still lives at home with his mum and dad.
Allen taught himself to cook – he is the family’s first chef – and said his love of food comes from fishing at Nelson Bay with his father, Peter.
Allen describes himself as laid back, an entertainer and super competitive.
And Maitland is behind him all the way.
