"MasterChef’s Julie Goodwin Reveals Dramatic Transformation During Throwback to Debut on The Project"

MasterChef’s Julie Goodwin Shows Off Transformation During The Project Farewell
By A. James for Daily Mail Australia
Published: 16:25 BST, 22 June 2025 | Updated: 16:26 BST, 22 June 2025

[Image: Julie Goodwin on The Project in 2025, smiling in a striped shirt, showcasing her weight loss.]

MasterChef Australia’s first winner, Julie Goodwin, made a nostalgic return to The Project on Sunday as the show approaches its final week after 16 years on air. The 54-year-old grandmother, who was the program’s inaugural guest in 2009, stunned viewers with her drastically changed appearance following a 20kg weight loss.

A Full-Circle Moment
During the segment, clips from Julie’s 2009 debut highlighted her early days as a reality TV star. Now a celebrated cookbook author and media personality, she reflected on the show’s legacy: “The way you’ve done this for 16 years has been beautiful. I’m thankful to have been a tiny part of it.” She praised The Project for balancing serious news with humor, adding, “It’s been a constant in my living room ever since I was your first guest.”

[Image: Side-by-side photos of Julie in 2009 (curly hair, glasses) vs. 2025 (sleeker look, grey streaks).]

Accidental Weight Loss Journey
Julie’s slimmer figure sparked attention, though she’s previously downplayed intentional dieting. In 2016, she revealed her weight loss was due to a hectic lifestyle: “I’m running a business and sometimes forget to eat—none of which is healthy.” Recently, she shared a selfie after a Sunrise appearance, flaunting natural grey streaks and a black-and-white striped shirt. Followers praised her radiant look, with one commenting, “You’re glowing!”

From MasterChef to Dancing Stardom
After winning MasterChef in 2009, Julie became a household name. She returned for All Stars in 2012 and competed on I’m A Celebrity in 2015. This year, she joined Dancing with the Stars, showcasing her newfound confidence. “Life’s too short not to try new things,” she said during rehearsals.

[Image: Julie with her dance partner Andrey Gorbunov on Dancing with the Stars 2024.]

Legacy of Laughter and Resilience
Despite personal challenges, including a 2023 mental health break, Julie remains a beloved figure. Her latest cookbook and TV gigs prove she’s still thriving. As The Project signs off, fans celebrated her heartfelt farewell: “You’ve been a joy to watch, Julie!”

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