The studio used to film the Ukrainian version of MasterChef has been hit in a Russian missile attack on Kyiv. There was extensive damage to the studio but no casualties, the producers of the show said. They added that they are working to keep the upcoming season of the cooking series on track.
MasterChef Ukraine is made by StarLight Production in association with its local broadcaster, STB, which is in turn part of StarLight Media Group. The pavilion where the popular cooking show is filmed was hit during a Russian missile attack on Nov. 13, its producers said.
StarLight has produced four seasons of the cooking competition format since the outbreak of war in Ukraine. Confirming the missile strike, the prodco said that there were no injuries and noted its wartime safety protocols, which include fortifying the production space, adding shelters, and having an autonomous power supply. Pictures from the producer illustrate the extent of the damage.
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The MasterChef format is owned by Banijay Entertainment. Deadline understands the production and distribution giant will contribute to the cost of rebuilding the production space. Marco Bassetti, CEO, Banijay Entertainment & Banijay Live said the company is “thankful to report no one was harmed in this atrocious and untargeted strike.”
In a statement given to Deadline, the Banijay boss added: “It is unimaginable to think that, in 2024, a neutral studio space could become victim to an air strike, but unfortunately this is the reality for the team; a team who over the past few years, despite the conflict, have bravely continued to produce MasterChef locally, delivering entertainment and escapism to so many at a time it’s needed most. It is in keeping with this determination, we are hopeful the set can be salvaged, and we will continue to stand with them in solidarity against these inhumane attacks.”
The cooking competition has proved popular on STB since it started airing in 2011. Oleksandr Bohutskyy, CEO of Starlight Media Group, said the local MasterChef team is now working to get production back up and running and scouting for a new location.
“The 15th season of Ukrainian MasterChef will take place as planned – a powerful reminder that with partnership and shared values, anything is possible,” said Bohutskyy. “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Banijay Rights for their genuine partnership and sincere support, which allows us, even in these difficult times, to create moments of hope and joy for Ukrainians while inspiring new culinary talents.”