Giovana Gelhoren
Updated on: October 11, 2024 4:51 pm GMT
As the beloved cooking competition “My Kitchen Rules” returns to screens across Australia, chefs Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge promise an exhilarating season filled with surprises and impressive culinary creations. Premiering on September 9, the new season introduces a unique twist that will reshape the viewer’s experience and challenge contestants in unprecedented ways.
Changes in the Competition Format
This season, “My Kitchen Rules” (MKR) will feature an innovative scoring system for the first time. Contestants will no longer receive anonymous scores from guest teams. Instead, cooking teams must face their critics directly after the meal is served, receiving feedback and scores in real-time. Executive producer Ewa Dobrowolska highlighted that this change will add more stakes to the competition and create a more dynamic interaction between contestants and their guests, stating, “It’s one thing to go to a restaurant and then write a bad review online. It’s another thing to stand there in front of the cook and score their meal a four out of ten.”
The added tension is expected to cultivate a more intense atmosphere, making the stakes higher for those competing for the title of MKR champions.
Returning Hosts and Their Dynamic
Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel are back, reuniting as the show’s co-hosts and judges. Their rapport, which has been an essential element of the show since Fassnidge joined in 2013, continues to delight fans. Fassnidge humorously referred to Feildel as his “work wife,” illustrating the close bond they share after spending considerable time together on the road over the years. This camaraderie not only enhances the entertainment value of the show but also brings a layer of authenticity to their judgment of the contestants.
Fassnidge has recently shifted his focus from restaurant ownership to television, after closing his hospitality business, By Fassnidge, and stepping back from his Sydney restaurant, The Castlereagh. However, he remains committed to sharing his kitchen expertise with aspiring cooks through MKR and his role on “Better Homes and Gardens.”
A New Standard of Cooking
This season, the quality of the dishes is expected to reach new heights. Fassnidge is confident that competitors will demonstrate a remarkable level of skill. He mentioned that, in his opinion, this season’s group of contestants showcased “unbelievable” culinary talent, including a dessert that left him “blown away.” Feildel echoed this sentiment, stating he may have tasted “the best dish” he has encountered in his fourteen seasons with MKR. As a result, viewers can anticipate a more refined and competitive atmosphere as these home cooks showcase their culinary prowess.
Fassnidge expressed enthusiasm not only for the dishes but also for the personalities involved this season. He noted, “Usually at the first instant restaurant, everyone is sort of coy, working each other out, but this year… they were just on fire, as in funny and positive. I remember going to the control room afterwards and saying, ‘This season is going to be great.’ There’s so many good people, and they make you laugh.”
The Road to Victory
As contestants hope to secure the title and a grand prize of $100,000, Fassnidge shared insights into what it takes to triumph in the competition. He likens the journey to a marathon, emphasizing consistency and communication between partners as crucial factors. Contestants must navigate the rigors of travel and cooking, demonstrating their skills repeatedly while maintaining high standards.
Fassnidge cautioned contestants against common pitfalls, specifically highlighting the importance of tasting their food before presenting it and sticking to their strengths. “Number one, not tasting their food, and number two, not sticking to what they know… can backfire,” he explained. “Taste your food, season your food, and work tidy.”
Looking Ahead to the Future
“My Kitchen Rules” possesses a nearly cult-like following, and this season promises to reaffirm its place in Australian pop culture. With more instant restaurants and an emphasis on guest interactions, the show aims to engage viewers in new ways while highlighting the talent of home cooks across the nation.
As the teams get ready to compete, the judges are excited for a fun cooking adventure. Fans can’t wait for what’s going to be an unforgettable season! With Fassnidge and Feildel leading the way, viewers can look forward to lots of laughs, some drama, and, of course, amazing food. Everyone is eager to see who will come out on top and become the champion of “My Kitchen Rules.”
