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Ben, Diana to face off for MasterChef title.

MasterChef favourite Karlie Verkerk has left the building, with Ben & Diana to battle for the 2017 title.

MasterChef favourite Karlie Verkerk has left the building, after coming third in TEN’s semi final.

It paves the way for Ben Ungermann and Diana Chan to battle it out for tonight’s grand final.

Karlie was eliminated after being told her dessert’s mandarin bitter did not pair well with the ice cream.

During the service for 25 people, the normally-assured Verkerk was unsettled, but still plated up a crayfish main that left the judges raving. In the end it wasn’t enough for her to proceed to the grand final.

Queenslander Ben Ungermann, 32, now faces off with Victorian Diana Chan, 29, for the $250,000 prize and 2017 title. Earlier this month Ungermann lost his licence after a low-range drink driving violation.

The 2.5hr finale comprises a culinary duel over three rounds, covering three courses. The third round includes a six hour pressure test to recreate a trio of fruits set by world champion chocolatier Kirsten Tibballs.

Since leaving the series Verkerk is helping Matt Preston on a new cookbook and will launch her own food and interiors website.

3 Responses

  1. I was hoping to see Sarah and Tamara in the final but their exits were fair enough. Happy to see either Ben or Diana win (but I’ll be cheering Diana on slightly more).

  2. I think Karlie has produced the most consistent high quality food across the comp, but she had a slightly off day and that’s it you are gone. I absolutely adore Diana, definitely my favourite personality this year, but either of the final 2 will be good winners. Good luck and well done to both of them

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