MasterChef: The Professionals' Monica Galetti is stepping down from her role as judge for the next series of the reality cooking show.
Monica first joined the show 14 years ago alongside Michel Roux Jr and Gregg Wallace, and then judged alongside Wallace and Marcus Wareing from 2014.
Her decision to take a break from the BBC One series is due to family priorities and commitments to her restaurant.
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"It is with a heavy heart that I’ve made this decision to step back from filming this year’s series of MasterChef: The Professionals," Monica said in a statement.
"My family need me, my restaurant needs me and trying to balance long filming days over the next three months with all these commitments meant that something had to give.
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"So, for the moment, my focus has to be 100% about my loved ones and rebuilding my kitchen team who have had a battering over the last few months especially. Those in the hospitality industry know just how tough it is at the moment."
She added: "To my MasterChef family, crew and friends, I’m so sorry that I won’t be with you this year but I hope to be back soon."
Monica concluded by thanking the broadcaster and producers for their cooperation during this time, together with a piece of sage advice for her fellow judges.
"Thank you to both BBC and Shine TV for being so understanding of my decision but for this year I’ll be your number one supporter from the side lines.
"To my fellow judges and friends Marcus and Gregg – I’ll be watching – you’ve got this! If you’re ever unsure just think – what would Mon do?! See you soon!"
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Sarah Clay, commissioning editor for entertainment at the BBC, described Monica as "a valued member of the MasterChef family", wishing her luck in the future.
"While we will miss her expertise and invaluable cooking and food knowledge, we fully support her filming break to focus on her family and business," she added.
MasterChef's executive editor David Ambler confirmed that the door is "always open" for Monica to return.
He added: "Monica is one of the most talented chefs of her generation, we have worked together closely for the past 14 years and regard her as an integral member of the MasterChef family."
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