“MasterChef Junior” contestants were thrilled at Michelle Obama’s surprise appearance on the Fox show, but not so much about the challenge with which she presented them.
“I’m Michelle Obama, and tonight, am thrilled to deliver your next mystery box challenge. Please head back to your stations,” the former first lady said.
The young contestants became visibly excited at Obama’s presence.
“I’m like, about to die. R.I.P. me, oh my God. I mean, Michelle Obama is a wonder woman and I look up to her so much. She is my idol,” 11-year-old Jasmine said.
Then, Obama revealed the mystery box challenge.
“I’m asking all of you to come up with an original recipe that’s healthy and follows the ‘my plate’ symbol, filing half your plate with fruits and veggies, and the rest with whole grains, lean protein and dairy,” she said.
The kids’ excitement waned.
“Michelle Obama wants me to cook vegetables. Not happening. I don’t like vegetables, they’re evil,” 9-year-old Donovan said.
The winner of the challenge, however, would win a trip to the White House.
The episode was filmed while President Obama was still in the White House. Justice, the 11-year-old winner of the challenge, attended Obama’s final Kids’ State Dinner in July, a Fox spokeswoman told CNN.
The former first lady frequently encouraged kids to exercise and eat healthy while she was in the White House.
