Last night I watched the 2nd episode of the Next Food Network Star which airs at 10 p.m E/T on the Food Newtork and I must say that while many of the competitiors are capable of preparing palatable food no one really stands out from the rest of the pack.
Outside of perhaps wanting to try one of the wannabe food stars recipes, not one of them has proven at least yet, that they have the charisma and star quality which would entice the home viewer to watch any cooking show which anyone of them might host.
While I realize that this experience is nerve wracking for the competitiors, they have to remember that in addition to creating exquisite mouth watering and eye pleasing meals they must also market themselves. Self confidence, creativity and the ability to stay calm under pressure are some of the traits which I'm sure the judges are looking for. After all, if you can't sell yourself how the heck can you sell your idea for a show based on your style of cooking.
Now last night 2 of the competitiors stood out and it wasn't because of their cooking ability. Nipa, exhibited somewhat childish behavior by leavng the room after being critiqued by the judges. Definitely not the actions, at least in my opinion, of someone who would be suited to handling the pressure of their own tv show. While I realize she is passionate about bringing her style of cooking to the rest of us, and that nobody like to be criticized, she needs to learn to accept the judges criticism for what it is. A learning tool and not a personal attack.
Lisa is the next one of my so called stand out competitiors and it isn't because of her cooking. While she was one of the winners in last nights challenge, watching her makes me feel as if I should be watching "Make Me A Supermodel" instead of watching a cooking competition. Last week she was dressed to the nines with high heels, an over abundance of jewelry and the perfect hair and makeup to complete the look.(what chef/cook actually dresses like that when the're working in the kitchen) This week once again, she wasn't any less perfect in her appearance. While I'm sure she want's to look nice on camera and who doesn't I personally find her appearance to be somewhat off putting. To me her look just screams arrogance with a pinch of an "I'm better than you" attitude thrown in for good measure . Definitely not someone I would watch if they had their own cooking show.
Having said all that I can't wait to see what culinary challeges unfold in next weeks episode.
