Recently, Samantha joined a culinary show named Celebrity MasterChef Tamil as its celebrity judge alongside host Vijay Sethupathi. In the latest development, the show announced its chief judge panel members. Taking on the roles of judges are celebrated chef, hospitality leader, television personality and restaurateur Venkatesh Bhat; MasterChef Australia Season 10 winner and acclaimed chef Sashi Cheliah; as well as The French Door, Coimbatore founder and culinary expert Shreeya Adka.

With their shared passion for cuisines, international experience, and expertise, Celebrity MasterChef Tamil is set to mentor, encourage, and challenge the participants as they deal with demanding culinary tasks, the pressure of making outstanding dishes, and unexpected twists.

Producer Banijay Asia's show will have recognised personalities from the Tamil entertainment space enter the exciting world of food, trading sets and screenplays for recipes and ingredients.

Speaking about the show and his role in it, Venkatesh Bhat shared, "I have watched with pride how MasterChef has taken Indian cuisine to the world, creating a new appreciation for the richness and character of our food. To now be part of this legacy with Celebrity MasterChef Tamil, with Samantha bringing this new chapter to life, is a truly special and proud moment for me. 

This is a show of many firsts, and I am excited that we are creating a premium, aspirational and authentically rooted celebration of Tamil cuisine. Tamil food has incredible depth, diversity and a rich culinary heritage, and I am proud to be part of a platform that will give audiences a taste of what authentic Tamil cuisine can truly be, while taking its flavours and stories to the world."