Alun Wyn Jones confirmed for celebrity BBC show later this year

Friday, 17 October 2025 at 13:30

bySteven Smith

Alun Wyn Jones is set to tackle a whole new kind of challenge this autumn — the heat of the BBC Celebrity MasterChef kitchen.

The record-breaking former Wales and British & Irish Lions captain will join a star-studded line-up of 15 famous faces all vying to impress judges John Torode and newcomer Grace Dent. Last year’s title was claimed by dancer and choreographer Vito Coppola, but Jones will be hoping to bring some of his trademark grit and discipline to the culinary contest.

Joining him in the 20th series are Alfie Boe, Antony Costa, Ashley Cain, Chris Hughes, Dawn O’Porter, Gaz Choudhry, Ginger Johnson, Jaki Graham, Jamie Lomas, Jodie Ounsley, Katie McGlynn, Michelle Heaton, Noreen Khan, and Uma Jammeh.

Over the course of five intense weeks, contestants will face a series of gruelling cookery challenges — from Heat Weeks and quarter-finals through to the all-important Finals Week — as they battle to be crowned Celebrity MasterChef champion 2025.

It’s a far cry from the rucks and mauls of Test rugby, but the 40-year-old admits he’s been searching for new challenges since hanging up his boots two years ago. “The structure and routine of rugby is something I’ve missed,” Jones has said — though this time, it’s the kitchen timer, not the referee’s whistle, keeping him in check.

? 5 fascinating facts about Alun Wyn Jones

World Record Holder – With 170 international caps (158 for Wales, 12 for the Lions), Jones holds the record as the most-capped rugby union player in history.
Triple Grand Slam Champion – He’s one of only a handful of players to win three Six Nations Grand Slams(2008, 2012, 2019).
Academic Achiever – Jones holds a law degree from Swansea University, proving brains as well as brawn.
Rugby Royalty – He captained Wales 48 times and led the Lions on their 2021 tour of South Africa.
Unexpected Cook – During lockdown, Jones reportedly took up cooking to keep busy — though whether his teammates approved of his culinary creations remains to be seen!