Who is chef Sophie Archer MasterChef: The Professionals 2024 contestant?

We have reached the final heat in this year’s MasterChef: The Professionals 2024, which next airs on Wednesday, November 20 at 8pm.

Introducing Sophie Archer, who works as a private chef.

Sophie studied politics and worked in law, before a career change saw her pursue cooking full-time.

NAME

Sophie Archer

AGE

41

WHERE ARE YOU FROM/WHERE DO YOU LIVE?

Sophie was born and raised in London. In 2019, she completed her diploma in food and wine from Leiths School of Food and Wine with a distinction.

She has worked both as private chef in reputable estates and households as well as in restaurants, such as Kitchen W8 and The Brown Dog. She now lives in west London.

CURRENT AND PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE

After school, Sophie studied politics at university. She did a law conversion, working in private practice and in-house as a corporate and commercial solicitor, then went on to run a corporate intelligence business. Throughout this time, she also did cooking jobs and after being recovering from non-Hodgkin lymphoma, Sophie decided to take the plunge to change careers and pursue cooking full-time.

WHO AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME A CHEF?

“My passion for food and cooking has constantly brought me joy in life. Celebrating with food was part of growing up. I used to pretend to be a presenter of a cooking show when I was very young, which my brother found hilarious. I have always idolised female cooks and chefs such as Ruthie Rogers, Angela Hartnett and Delia Smith.

“As a chef I love how you can meet incredible people from such a wealth of backgrounds. You can’t beat the buzz of a good service. Nothing says you care more than delivering a dish from your heart.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF COOKING AND ANY INFLUENCES ON IT?

“French and Middle Eastern influences inspire my cooking. For me it’s all about delicious, seasonal produce. I love creating food that makes you smile and transports you to a very happy place.”

WHY DID YOU WANT TO TAKE PART IN MASTERCHEF: THE PROFESSIONALS?

“I have been given a second chance at life - and want to wring everything I can out of it. I’m excited to learn, meet incredible people, have fun and make people smile! I also hope to discover more about myself.”

OUTSIDE OF COOKING WHAT ARE YOUR PASSIONS?

“When I’m not in the kitchen, I’m getting into nature, walking, running, reading in the bath, podcasting, writing, going to the cinema, seeing plays and travelling.”