Spencer Matthews has been having private cooking lessons to boost his chances of winning 'Celebrity MasterChef'.
Spencer Matthews
The former 'Made in Chelsea' star has been having one-on-one classes with TV chef Jean-Christophe Novelli - who he was introduced to by his hotelier father David - because he's determined to stay ahead of the competition and wants to do as well as possible on the culinary contest.
A source told the Mail on Sunday newspaper: "Spencer was making no secret that he wanted to do well - so much so that he used his connections to get ahead.
"He was boasting to the others that he'd got some expert help. He knew that it was a bit naughty.
"David Matthews and Jean-Christophe met a while ago and Spencer first visited the chef at a food festival. He was determined to stay in the show for as long as possible."
A source close to the Michelin-starred chef confirmed he had helped Spencer, but the 29-year-old reality star claimed he had "never heard" of Jean-Christophe.
But Spencer isn't the only contestant taking part this week who's said to have had help in preparing for the show.
Former 'EastEnders' actor John Partridge reportedly spent a week with a senior chef, who talked him through recipes and helping him manage the show's time limits, while 'One Show' presenter Jean Johansson has received private cooking tutorials.
However, programme bosses don't seem to be too upset by the revelation, insisting they expect the famous contestants to have done their "research" before taking part.
A spokesperson for the show said: "As with any role or job, we would expect the celebrities to do some research before appearing on the show."
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