Food Network Star

Twelve hopefuls arrive in Los Angeles to compete for the chance to host their own show on The Food Network. The competition starts right away as the contestants prep a meal that best represents who they are.

The 11 finalists perform an assembly line demo in only 11 minutes. Then, Duff Goldman from "Ace of Cakes" challenges them to transform a carnival sweet into a savory bite for a party on the Santa Monica Pier.

The 10 remaining finalists get a crash course in the Hollywood way of life! First they have to present a dish to camera inspired by a classic film genre. Next they cater an after-party for Grammy Award winner Colbie Caillat.

Pepper Master Bobby Flay turns up the heat and assigns each finalist a pepper to use for their spicy dish. Next, Bobby introduces three culinary legends who challenge the finalists to re-invent the best thing they ever ate.

In a super-sized episode, eight finalists create their very own food product in a jar. Then, Paula Deen reveals four food trucks and challenges the finalists to create and operate a lunch truck business.

Special guest Ted Allen assigns each of the seven remaining finalists a party theme "in a basket." They head to Frank Sinatra's Estate in Palm Springs to serve a retro dish for special guests.

Season 5 winner Melissa d'Arabian challenges the finalists to cook "dinner for breakfast" with Kellogg's cereal. Next, the finalists serve LA's culinary elite at an Underground Supper Club.

Finalists have to cook their signature dish and use their least favorite ingredient delivered by their family members. Then they cook a dish for special guests Eva Longoria and Todd English at their restaurant, Beso.

The finalists compete in a real Iron Chef America battle in the Food Network Star's version of "Kitchen Stadium." The Selection Committee and guest Iron Chefs Michael Symon, Cat Cora and Masaharu Morimoto will judge.

Rachael Ray surprises the final three contestants to use her years of experience to direct them in their pilots. After they are reviewed by a focus group and the selection committee, the next Food Network Star is announced!