Food Network Star – Casting Guide

Food Network Star – Show Overview

This is a multiple episode reality show that appears on Food Networkin which one contestant is eliminated each week. The show is judged by Alton Brown, Bobby Flay, and Giada De Laurentiis. Each week there are two culinary challenges with the first being a reward style challenge and the second being for elimination. This is not merely a cooking competition as the winner will need a strong camera presence as well. The most recent winner, “The Gourmet Cowboy” Lenny is a great example of this. It is debatable whether Lenny was the best chef of the finals, but there was no one even close to him in terms of likability. His antics struck accord with the American viewing audience, and he won the show by a landslide.

This is one of the most selective shows on the Food Network as simply appearing on the show can boost a contestant’s career. Additionally while a Chopped or Cutthroat Kitchen has 4 contestants per episode, this show has a mere 14 per year. Often the competitors on Food Network Star have appeared and even won other reality shows on the the network. While there isn’t a specifically promoted prize payout, being the host of a show will immediately provide credibility and a significant career push.

Food Network Star Casting Tips

There are two methods of applying of this show for season 11. The first method is to attend on of the in person casting calls. We will have complete date, time, and locations below. The second method is to submit a 3 minute video explaining why you should appear on the show. For most people attending an in person casting call is going to be preferable. The open casting calls will often have 30 to 50 people, and you are certain to meet actual staff. If you attend one of the open calls be memorable and entertaining. You will have a chance to convey your energy, and under all circumstances be on all the time. Don’t sit passively in a corner waiting to speak to the staffing team, engage the other applicants. Remember they are not simply looking for the best chef in the room, but rather someone that a subsection of the viewing audience can relate.

If you don’t have the presence to command a room, then you may prefer the online video submission. The beauty of this is that through editing and post production, you can really enhance how you sell yourself and idea for the show. This method can be especially effective if you have a very active online presence with Youtube or other videos. This will provide the casting department a chance to see how you perform under the cameras. We recommend shooting 30 minutes for each minute of video with multiple takes of each piece and then editing it down. One of the best ways to get a feel of what you need in your video is to look at someone who was cast on the show, and we found a stellar example. Below is Nicole Gafney who was a finalist in FNS Season 10. She demonstrates her ability to both cook, connect with the camera, and interesting describe the steps she is taking.

Regardless of how you apply, it is imperative that you have a solid “Point of View” or “POV” as they refer to it on the show. The worst POVs are the ones in which contestants merely try to use their home region. Sarah is a great example of this from Season 10. Her “Point of View” was Texas, and that simply didn’t resonate with the execs. She would have been far better using the “Cooking for Kids” or “Busy Mom Meals” that focused on her ability to create healthy meals that would be enjoyed by people of any age. Remember, you need to be a “expert” in the field so you may want to guest publish on some blogs or create videos on the topic. Even creating a few references online before being cast is going to help with your credibility. One of the most unique concept that I have seen is “The Sandwich King”. His entire culinary goal and show was explained in that simple phrase, and he went on to both win a season and appear on many other shows.

Applicant Restrictions:

There are few restrictions regarding applying for the show; however, the production team is looking for people who have experience and talent building furniture. This is not a competition that will provide any level of training so everyone needs to be a master in woodwork and metal craft before applying. While there are many benefits to appearing on the show, it may be best to hone your skills and be proficient at every aspect of furniture construction.

• Must be 18+ Years Old
• Must be able to be in United States.
• Must not have been on another nationwide cooking show in the past three years.
• Must be available 6-8 weeks in January 2015 to April 2015 for Filming
• Applications Must be Submitted before December 8, 2014/li>

Food Network Star Auditions Casting Calls

There are eight casting calls for season 11. Please remember prior to appearing in one of the casting calls to complete the online application so they are prepared to speak to you. As part of completing the form, you will be asked which city you plan to try out.

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Food Network Star Online Application Process

The first step in applying for the show is to complete the form which will ask for the following information. You will need to complete this regardless of whether you plan to submit a video or attend a casting call.

• Your Contact Information (Full Name and Phone Number)
• Brief Description of your Experience/Background
• Examples of your culinary experience/awards

Finally, if you applied to be on this show, we’d love to hear your story whether or not you were selected to appear on air. Feel free to click the link below to share your story with us and our readers.