Jet Tila reveals why Tournament of Champions Season 4 means so much to him, interview

Contestant Jet Tila during Battle 4, West A Matchup 6, as seen on Tournament of Champions, Season 4.
Contestant Jet Tila during Battle 4, West A Matchup 6, as seen on Tournament of Champions, Season 4. /
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During a recent conversation regarding his partnership with Dawn Professional Heavy Duty Manual Pot and Pan, Jet Tila was willing to give a little insight into Tournament of Champions Season 4. As Food Network fans watch each week to see which chef ultimately earns the coveted belt, Tila said that this season is unlike any other. In some ways, there is a win for the chef community no matter the final outcome.

When asked about Tournament of Champions Season 4, Tila said, “we’ve never had this amount of Top Chefs and Iron Chefs.” Even though there is a tremendous amount of culinary talent, Tila revealed that viewers will see “some disappointments and some of the favorite chefs go through in each week.” While the winner will earn those five individual culinary battles to be crowned champion, it will not be an easy task.

Tila believes that “no one else could pull this kind of show together except Guy Fieri.” That sentiment has been clear since the show began three seasons ago. The ultimate culinary competition might not have as many upsets as that other March bracket competition. Still, each episode has tons of excitement, and the outcome is never predictable.

Jet Tila on Tournament of Champions Season 4
Contestant Jet Tila during Battle 4, West A Matchup 6, as seen on Tournament of Champions, Season 4. /

As the number one seed, Tila has taken down some stiff competition so far. Whether or not he goes all the way remains to be seen. But, this season there is something special for Tila to appreciate.

With 32 chefs starting the competition, the breath and depth of the chefs is only one component. This season showcases the diversity within the culinary community.

When asked about the chefs this season, Tila said, “I think as a person of color who is a son of immigrants, first generation, that’s absolutely important. But, is beyond that. It is not just diversity. The chefs are massively talented. And, seeing five Asian chefs start the tournament is meaningful. Viewers are going to see a moment this season where I get very emotional about it.”

No matter the final outcome to Tournament of Champions Season 4, the real win for everyone involved that the culinary world has a great breath of talent. Even if the randomizer might play havoc with the chefs, the creativity will have fans hungry for more.

Be sure to watch new episodes of Tournament of Champions Season 4 on Food Network Sunday nights or stream on discovery+.