by Gina Scarpa

 

It was a double elimination this past week on Food Network Star and the judges sent Penny and Chris packing. He claimed sabotage after the temperature of his oven was mysteriously adjusted to 100 degrees higher than what he had originially set it at. Regardless or tampering or not, the judges questioned his immaturity level and felt it was his time to go. Today, we caught up with Chris in an exclusive interview about his Food Network Star experience.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: What was your cooking experience prior to Food Network Star?
A. Chris: I cooked my entire life with my family and than went to the FCI. I was a sous chef before the show and now act as an executive chef and consultant.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: What made you want to have your own cooking show and what did you envision it being like?
A. Chris: In an ideal world, I would be a younger Emeril, with a little Anthony Bourdain and Zane Lamprey from 3 Sheets. Basically educational and entertaining!

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Who was your biggest competition?
A. Chris: Myself. It can be very challenging to be happy with performance and feel you are doing the best you can.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: You were often shown as being very hyped up and energetic. Do you feel like we got to see all of you?
A. Chris: Definitely not but hopefully someday you will!

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: The judges questioned your maturity level this week. What is your response to that?
A. Chris: I know who I am and in any situation like this, the judges are only going to see so much of the behind the scenes. It's easy to question what they don't have all of the backstory.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Looking back on it, do you still feel you were sabotaged in this episode?
A. Chris: Yes I do, but I also realize this is a game and just one opportunity and I hope for more in the future.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: How were you feeling when you were first eliminated and how do you feel about it now?
A. Chris: I would have eliminated myself as well. I may have been overconfident and that is probably not the best star quality.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: What's next for you?
A. Chris: The sky is the limit; I will definitely explore all options to allow me to do what I love.

 

Food Network Star airs Sundays at 9/8c on Food Network.

 

(Image courtesy of Food Network)

 

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