Food Network, home of, well, The Next Food Network Star, attributed the show’s relatively massive haul in the ratings to reaching out to a brand new and younger audience demographic – that is, if you can call 43 ‘young.’

As the show premiered last Sunday, June 1, it allegedly topped in household numbers and adults 25 to 54 demographic.  The cooking show, premised on looking for someone who can ably host his / her own show on the Food Network, had nearly two million viewers in the 10 pm schedule, according to Nielsen Media Research.  It said The Next Food Network Star attracted a much younger audience with a median age of 43, which is at least seven years younger than last year’s debut.

Food Network claims it was the highest rated and most-watched series premiere in their history.

Part of The Next Food Network Star’s unprecedented success can also be attributed to its current star-studded line-up, with the likes of chef Bobby Flay to fully supervise and assist the contestants as their food knowledge and showmanship are tested by a barrage of sometimes weird, always nerve-wracking challenges.

On the most recent episode, the contestants were tasked to make a technique video for preparing food in 60 seconds (which Kelsey won).  Also, they had to cook and serve their dishes for 30 Coast Guard men and women aboard one of their ships (which Kelsey also won).

Star-studded, indeed, the rotating cast of guests ranges from Martha Stewart to Rachael Ray, then Giada De Laurentiis, Alton Brown, Cat Cora, Sandra Lee, Gina and Pat Neely, Masaharu Moriomto, Tyler Florence, Michael Symon and even Season Two winner Guy Fieri.

-Glenn L. Diaz, BuddyTV Staff Columnist
Source: Monster and Critics
(Image Courtesy of Monster and Critics)