Food Network is betting big on Wildcard Kitchen, renewing the late-night culinary game show for a third season. Additionally, host Eric Adjepong has secured a new multi-year contract with the network.
Here’s the Lowdown: The renewal comes after a successful second season, which reached nearly 6 million viewers and saw audience growth, particularly in the younger P25-35 demographic (+33%). The show features Adjepong hosting chefs in an underground poker game where cooking challenges determine the winner of cash prizes. Pre-production for season three is underway, with filming expected to begin this spring.
What This Means Now: Fans of the show can look forward to more high-stakes culinary poker. Eric Adjepong’s new deal solidifies his position at Food Network, where he has appeared on numerous shows like Chopped and Tournament of Champions. His role as host is seen as key to Wildcard Kitchen’s appeal.
The Bigger Picture: Wildcard Kitchen’s renewal and Adjepong’s contract extension highlight Food Network’s strategy of developing unique formats and investing in recognizable talent. Adjepong, known for bringing West African cuisine to wider attention, also recently opened his own restaurant, Elmina, in Washington D.C., and published both a children’s book and a cookbook, increasing his profile within the food world.
