This week, Stan Mars chats to Johannesburg’s Dr Phil Munda, the latest contestant to leave MasterChef South Africa after an emotional dessert challenge that had viewers across the country talking.

The 33-year-old general surgeon quickly became one of the season’s standout contestants thanks to his calm energy, sophisticated cooking style and genuine kindness in the kitchen. During the Biscoff-inspired elimination challenge, Dr Phil’s dessert unfortunately fell apart after discovering his oven had switched off, leaving his pastry underbaked and the dish unable to fully set. Despite the setback, judges still praised elements of his cook - especially his blackberry compote, earning him the now-iconic nickname “Compote King” from Zola Nene.

Beyond the food, Dr Phil won over audiences with the way he supported fellow contestants throughout the competition, proving that heart can be just as important as skill in the MasterChef kitchen.

Stan Mars catches up with Dr Phil to unpack the emotional elimination, the pressure of balancing surgery and cooking, the friendships formed in the competition, and what’s next after his unforgettable MasterChef journey.

MasterChef South Africa airs every Sunday at 18:00 on e.tv.