MasterChef’s James Buckley ‘I won’t cook at home so the kids don’t get poisoned’

James Buckley is known for his portrayal of crude schoolboy Jay Cartwright in The Inbetweeners. Fast-forward 15 years and the actor, who has since appeared in shows including White Gold and Doctor Who, is on-screen without a character to hide behind as he goes head-to-head against four others in Celebrity MasterChef.

“I’ve got to do something, haven’t I?” laughs James, 35, when asked why he signed up. “I haven’t been in a TV show for about five years, and it’s nice for the missus – it gets me out of the house for a little while.”

This is Celebrity MasterChef’s 18th run and for six weeks, judges John Torode and Gregg Wallace will put the stars through their paces to see who can stand the heat in the kitchen.

Also donning an apron in the first round are broadcaster and reality star Dani Dyer, comedian and actor Marcus Brigstocke, TV personality Mica Ven and TV and radio personality Richie Anderson.

The first challenge for the five hopefuls is menacingly named Under The Cloche. In front of each celebrity is a cloche, each concealing a different ingredient. The celebs must create an incredible plate of food showcasing their mystery ingredient. The final test gives the contestants just over an hour to prepare a main course and dessert that will impress the judges.

“It was really daunting,” says James. “And nerve-wracking. I’m not good at competitions, I don’t really like them. But I’ve actually really enjoyed myself, which I’m quite shocked about to be honest.”

James confesses he tries to stay out of the kitchen as much as possible, leaving his other half, Clair Meek, in charge.

“I don’t cook a lot at home,” he says. “My wife cooks for me and the kids because she makes sure they’re fed properly and don’t get food poisoning. I love cooking cereal, but even then I get that wrong. The kids say I put too much milk in it.”

Given his lack of experience, it seemed a good idea to practise at home before the competition began – but it knocked his confidence.

“It just confirmed that I’m rubbish at cooking!” James exclaims. “I don’t cook much. The three things I always have in my fridge are milk, beer and butter.”

Celebrity MasterChef, Wednesday 2nd August, 9pm, BBC One