Among the final contenders for MasterChef 12 was Idoia Montero, sister of singer Amaia Montero. Her culinary presentation did not persuade the judging panel, and she found herself close to elimination, despite a hopeful track record on Spanish television’s popular culinary talent show. The moment captured the tension between her evident passion for cooking and the competition’s specific tastes, underscoring how even strong effort can meet a tough verdict on a reality cooking stage.
Her candid reception included clear endorsements from Samantha Vallejo-Nágera and guest chef Marcos Morán. The judge noted that Idoia clearly enjoyed cooking and that her plate reflected a personal touch that could produce a delicious meal. Morán, however, observed that the dish concept had been explored many times, suggesting the execution didn’t stand out enough to seal a confident yes. The evaluation highlighted the fine line between solid technique and a distinctive, memorable signature in competitive dining.
Idoia needed one more affirmative vote. Instead, Jordi Cruz and Pepe Rodríguez delivered two nos. “I’d like to say yes, but I can’t. You’ve opened many paths, but none of them convinced you. I didn’t see that you wanted to be a chef,” Cruz commented as the room reflected, revealing how persuasiveness and a clear culinary identity are pivotal on the MasterChef stage.
The Illescas-based host and mentor remarked that MasterChef can reshape a life, a sentiment often echoed on the show. He added that while Idoia’s potential is real, maturity may still be needed. “Will you come back, Idoia?” he asked, and she answered with a restrained, “we’ll see.” The moment underscored the program’s openness to returns and growth, inviting contestants to refine their craft for future opportunities.
“Failure is doing nothing”
Guipuzcoan, aged 48, expressed a conviction that resonates beyond the studio lights: there is value in trying, even if results aren’t immediate. “I would like to enter, but failure is doing nothing,” he stated on camera, a quote later shared by his sister on social media to motivate others. The message emphasized persistent effort as a core ingredient of real progress.
Amaia Montero, the former vocalist of La Oreja de Van Gogh, used her own platform to encourage her sister, posting uplifting words and remains of mutual pride. Her message reinforced the idea that personal identity and perseverance matter more than a single triumph. “Nobody knows it like you. Real success is trying again and again and not giving up,” she wrote, insisting that authenticity and resilience matter in both art and competition.
Amaia’s Instagram post drew significant engagement, with more than 9,000 likes and countless supportive comments from fans and friends alike. Idoia herself acknowledged on the same social channel that the night before had been emotionally charged and memorable, a testament to how public journeys in reality television intersect with private emotion and familial support.
Idoia expressed gratitude for the direct and sincere messages she received, interpreting them as validation for her path. She spoke of her family as a source of strength, likening their unwavering support to a pinecone cluster that protects and nourishes. She also teased that she would soon begin sharing her recipes, inviting viewers to join her in the kitchen as she continues to pursue what she loves most: cooking. Her closing reminder—that no one should define who she is—left a personal stamp on the episode and its aftermath.
When considering past seasons, it wouldn’t be surprising if Idoia Montero became a candidate again or even a contender in a future round should a participant withdraw. The show’s format often provides a repechage opportunity—an extra window for redemption in the middle of the season—allowing determined cooks to reenter the competition and prove their growth to viewers in Canada and the United States alike. This dynamic keeps the door open for renewed chances and evolving skill demonstrations as audiences continue to follow the journey and root for personal breakthroughs.