MasterChef Israel Eliminates Fan Favorite Jackie Azulai After Intense Ethiopian Cuisine Challenge

In a dramatic episode of MasterChef Israel aired on August 25, 2026, two of the season's top contestants, Jackie Azulai and Eliav Sasson, faced off in a challenging Ethiopian-themed cooking task. Both contestants impressed the judges with their exceptional dishes, leaving the judges and fellow competitors stunned that one of these giants of the season would be eliminated. Ultimately, Jackie Azulai received the lowest score and was sent home, despite having previously earned a perfect score from judge Yuval Ben Neria in an earlier challenge.

Jackie, who many mistakenly believed had won a previous season, returned this season to "close a circle" and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete and grow. During the elimination, judge Eyal Shani emotionally recalled a moment when Jackie described herself as gentle despite others perceiving her as assertive, which moved him to tears. Chef Avi Biton lamented the harshness of judging, noting how one day a contestant can receive a perfect score and the next face elimination due to a less successful dish.

Jackie responded with grace, acknowledging the disappointment but emphasizing her personal growth and self-belief. She stated, "I came to close a circle and say a huge thank you for being able to earn a living with dignity and be in a place I love. I wanted to win, but I am teaching myself that I am always first in my own mind." She also humorously noted that she has yet to win any reality show. The episode highlighted the high level of competition and emotional intensity as the season progresses toward the finale.