Barbecue Showdown, the thrilling reality competition series on Netflix, is set to return for a third season, anticipated to air in mid-2024. Following a casting call in August 2023, fans eagerly await the continuation of this succulent barbecuing show.
Initially known as The American Barbecue Showdown, the series debuted in September 2020. Its second season premiered in May 2023, maintaining the format of 8 action-packed episodes showcasing intense grilling battles and culinary mastery. A significant change in season two was the replacement of automotive journalist Rutledge Wood with comedian and actress Michelle Buteau, known for her work on Netflix’s Survival of the Thickest. Despite this change, BBQ experts Melissa Cookston and Kevin Bludso continued their roles as judges, providing deep insights and sharp critiques. The consistency in key cast members, such as Buteau, Cookston, and Bludso, is expected to carry over into the third season, much to the delight of the audience.
The second season concluded with an intense showdown where Thyron Mathews, known as Big T, triumphed over Logan Sandoval in the final battle, earning admiration for his skill and innovative flavors.
The third season, scheduled to release globally on Thursday, July 4th, 2024, promises another round of fierce competition and mouth-watering creations. Nine pitmasters from across the country will enter the competition, demonstrating their culinary prowess at high altitudes for a grand prize of $50,000 and the prestigious title of champion.
The show’s previous season gained significant popularity, making it to Netflix’s top 10 with 13.63 million hours watched in Week 27 and maintaining a top 10 position in various countries for 12 days, as reported by FlixPatrol. This success set the stage for the upcoming season, which sought new contestants through a casting call in September 2023 by All3 Media America and Cast IT Reach.
Returning to host the third season is the charismatic Michelle Buteau, alongside Allison Balgobin, and the experienced judges Melissa Cookston and Kevin Bludso. Their vibrant personalities and critical expertise add a unique flavor to the series, making it a standout in the reality TV genre.
As we anticipate the next season, the audience can look forward to witnessing extraordinary barbecuing skills, innovative dishes, and the creative management of fire. The competition will challenge the pitmasters to push the boundaries of traditional barbecue, promising an exciting and delectable viewing experience.