Celebrity Edition of Worst Cooks in America returned for its 13th season in 2024, bringing together a group of famous faces who admitted – sometimes with humor, sometimes with horror – that their culinary skills left something to be desired. With host and judge domination from veteran chefs Anne Burrell and Marcus Samuelsson, the season promised dramatic transformations, competitive cook-offs, and plenty of on-screen laughs.
As fans tuned in week after week, the burning question on everyone’s lips was: Who won celebrity Worst Cooks in America season 13? This article dives deep into the season, providing a comprehensive breakdown of the competitors, the challenges, and, ultimately, the winner of this beloved Food Network competition.
Understanding Celebrity Worst Cooks in America
Before we reveal the winner, let’s take a moment to understand what Celebrity Worst Cooks in America is all about. Unlike the regular edition, which features everyday people who struggle in the kitchen, the celebrity version invites well-known personalities who are often infamous for their bad cooking. Many have openly joked that their idea of a balanced diet includes microwave meals and fast food.
In each season, these stars are paired with mentors – typically well-known chefs and previous judges from Food Network – who guide them through a series of cooking challenges designed to test their progress and culinary creativity.
Season 13 Overview
Celebrity Worst Cooks in America season 13 premiered in early 2024 and aired on Sundays on Food Network. Season 13 featured eight celebrity contestants, all with zero to minimal cooking experience. Throughout the season, they were divided into two teams mentored by celebrity chefs in the hopes of turning these infamous kitchen disasters into decent home cooks.
The mentors for this season were the culinary powerhouses Anne Burrell and Marcus Samuelsson, who also served as head judges throughout the competition. Their chemistry and tough-love coaching became a highlight for viewers, often resulting in dramatic improvements (and some equally dramatic disasters!).
Contestants of Celebrity Worst Cooks in America Season 13
Each season of Worst Cooks in America selects a uniquely talented and recognizable cast. Season 13 was no exception, bringing in a diverse mix of actors, athletes, social media personalities, and reality TV stars. Let’s meet the contestants who vied for the title of worst – and later, best – cook among their celebrity peers.
Season 13 Contestant List
- Jenn Gibbons – Reality TV Star (Vanderpump Rules)
- Kyle Richards – Actress and Singer
- Bianca Belair – WWE Superstar
- Kaitlyn Bristowe – Reality TV Star (Bachelor Nation)
- DJ Spinderella – Musician and DJ
- Paul ‘Pauly D’ DelVecchio – Reality TV Star (Jersey Shore)
- Dionne Warwick – Music Legend
- Tony Gonzalez – Former NFL Star
From seasoned entertainers to athletes with strict diets, this lineup featured a wide variety of interests and challenges. But when it came to kitchen skills – the jury was unanimous: all eight contenders were in for a transformational journey.
Season 13 Format and Competition Structure
The season followed the classic Worst Cooks structure, with each week featuring themed challenges that tested different aspects of cooking like technique, ingredient knowledge, time management, and presentation.
Contestants were split into two teams led by chefs Anne Burrell and Marcus Samuelsson. At the end of each week, the worst performer from each team faced a redemption cook-off, where judges decided who would be eliminated.
The competition culminated in a finale where two finalists faced off in a three-course challenge judged by Anne Burrell and Marcus Samuelsson.
Key Weekly Challenges
Throughout the season, standout challenges included:
- Breakfast Cook-Off – Testing basic food knowledge
- Blindfolded Mystery Ingredients Cookoff – Testing taste and improvisation
- Global Cuisines Challenge – Offering exposure to international flavors
- Pressure Cooker Task – Designed to test time management under stress
- Signature Dish Creation – Where finalists could showcase their culinary creativity
Each task led to growth, laughter, and occasionally shocking plate presentations. Some contestants quickly improved while others stayed… well… stuck in their ways.
The Final Cook-Off: Who Made the Cut?
After several intense weeks of competition, only two contestants made it to the finale. Here’s a breakdown of the final two and their culinary styles as they approached the last cook-off of the season.
Finalist 1: Bianca Belair
Hailing from the world of WWE, Bianca Belair entered the kitchen with confidence and a competitive spirit that carried over from the ring. Known for her discipline and physique, fans were surprised to learn that Bianca admitted she rarely cooked. Her routine consisted largely of prepped meals and convenience food.
As the season progressed, Bianca became a fan favorite for her determination and her growing ability to cook under pressure. Her dishes improved from week to week, and in the finale, she presented a surprisingly elegant meal that impressed the judges.
Finalist 2: Kyle Richards
Longtime audience favorites from The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, Kyle Richards arrived in the kitchen with charm and humility. She joked that her usual role was to hand off the cooking responsibilities to her husband.
Despite a rocky start, Richards showed steady improvement. Her personality and willingness to learn made her one of the breakout stars of the season. In the final cook-off, she delivered a heartfelt presentation that paid tribute to her Italian heritage with a three-course feast ranging from pasta to tiramisu.
Who Won Celebrity Worst Cooks in America Season 13?
Drumroll, please… after weeks of trial-by-fire challenges, growth, and redemption arcs, the judges stepped in to make the final decision.
The Winner: Bianca Belair!
Bianca Belair was crowned the winner of Celebrity Worst Cooks in America season 13, beating out co-finalist Kyle Richards in a nail-biting finish. Her dedication to improving each week, attention to the mentors’ feedback, and eventual execution of dishes that wowed made her a deserving champion of the season.
It was a major achievement for Belair, who, in her victory speech, joked that she was finally moving from the “fast food aisle” to the “fresh produce section.”
Judges’ Assessment of the Win
Mentors Anne Burrell and Marcus Samuelsson delivered a joint verdict on Belair’s victory:
Marcus Samuelsson: “Bianca really stepped up. She had no experience but approached each task with a professional mindset.”
Anne Burrell: “Her taste improved, her plating improved, and she didn’t give up. That’s what this competition is about. The sky’s the limit for her in the kitchen now.”
Rachel Ray Weighs In
As a special guest appearance, longtime host Rachel Ray joined the finale and offered her perspective on Bianca’s impressive transformation from celebrity kitchen disaster to seasoned home cook in just seven weeks. “If you can take down opponents in the ring, you can absolutely take down salmon in a pan. And Bianca proved that tonight!” she said.
Why Bianca Belair Was the Right Winner
Now that we know the winner, it’s worth digging deeper into why Bianca was ultimately selected over her competitor, Kyle Richards.
Consistency and Growth
One of the most notable aspects of Bianca’s journey was her consistency in improvement. While not every dish was perfect, by the halfway mark she was showing a clear learning arc. Her ability to handle kitchen pressure and take feedback to heart was impressive, especially compared to some other contestants who plateaued after week two.
Celebrity Come-From-Behind Factor
What made Bianca’s win even more compelling was that she came into the competition unsure of even the most basic cooking terminology – she famously asked, “Is a sauté pan different from a frying pan?” early on.
Yet, by the finale, she was confidently searing, seasoning, and even crafting sauces from scratch. This journey from clueless beginner to confident cook captured the essence of the show: transformation under pressure.
Personal Investment
Bianca made it clear in interviews and confessional segments during the show that she was doing this not just for the title, but for her future. “I want to be the best version I can be in and out of the ring – if that includes being able to cook for myself and the people I care about, then I’m all in,” she said in one elimination interview.
This personal investment, combined with her overall performance, made her an inspiration both in the kitchen and beyond.
Fans’ Reactions to the Season 13 Winner
Following the grand finale broadcast, fans flooded social media with reactions — many celebrating Bianca’s win and cheering for her personal growth.
Social Media Praise for Bianca
- @WrestlingFanLife: “Bianca proving she can win beyond WrestleMania? Queen of everything is right!”
- @CookingBlogger: “Her growth arc could be a Food Network course on resilience. Respect.”
- @RealityTVAddict: “Kyle was great, but Bianca was inspiring. She owned her journey.”
Reaction from Kyle Richards
Although Richards was not the champion this time, her gracious acceptance of the decision won her even more fans. “Bianca earned it – and I can’t wait to try her winning dish this weekend with my family,” she posted on her Instagram.
Her post included a behind-the-scenes photo with Bianca, chefs, and mentors, emphasizing the camaraderie and growth that came from the experience.
Behind the Scenes: Training and Preparation
While the show makes transformations seem magical, weeks of real effort and behind-the-scenes coaching go into each contestant’s journey. Each of the selected celebrities was required to live together in a house under Food Network’s production while attending scheduled cooking sessions.
These mentoring moments – often not captured on mainstream clips – were crucial for contestants like Bianca. Her willingness to take extra time at the end of the day to practice knife skills and review techniques clearly paid off in the final weeks.
Bianca’s Recipe Evolution
One of the most noticeable signs of progress came in the form of Bianca’s final dish. In Week 2, she served undercooked chicken and questionable seasoning. By Week 7:
Her Championship Plate Featured:
- A perfectly seared sea bass
- A bright citrus-infused quinoa slaw
- A saffron beurre blanc sauce
The judges noted that her plating and flavor balance had improved dramatically.
What’s Next for Bianca Belair?
Winning Celebrity Worst Cooks in America season 13 has likely opened new opportunities for Bianca Belair beyond wrestling. Already a global ambassador for health and fitness, she can easily pivot into food or wellness content in the near future.
TV Appearances
Sources indicate that talks have already begun about a potential cooking segment on a wellness podcast she co-hosts, and there’s also speculation about a short-form food series that could debut on a major streaming platform.
Collaboration with Anne Burrell
Anne Burrell, visibly impressed with Bianca’s transformation, teased a possible collaboration at the finale party: “If she ever wants to open a restaurant in WWE country, I’m the first name on her list! Seriously, we need more people like her in the food world.”
Conclusion: A Season of Food, Fame, and Flavor
Celebrity Worst Cooks in America season 13 offered an enjoyable mix of personalities, kitchen disasters, heartfelt moments, and personal growth. It once again reminded us how important skills like cooking and creativity are to personal development and independence.
To wrap it up:
- Bianca Belair won the coveted title in season 13.
- Her growth from zero experience to plated perfection made her journey the standout of the season.
- Hosted by Anne Burrell and Marcus Samuelsson, the show provided a dynamic blend of mentorship and comedy.
From reheating frozen pizzas to crafting complex dishes from scratch, Bianca proved that you don’t have to be a chef to earn a place at the table – sometimes all it takes is heart, effort, and an open mind.
If you’ve ever doubted your cooking potential, Bianca Belair’s season 13 journey is proof positive that anyone can improve with the right coaching, effort, and ambition. Whether you’re a die-hard wrestling fan, a Food Network devotee, or someone just looking to find your way around the kitchen, Worst Cooks in America season 13 served up a winning combination.
Stay tuned
– you just might see Bianca in the kitchen again soon, maybe with her own line of ready-to-cook meal kits, or even a celebrity chef cookbook!
Who won Celebrity Worst Cooks in America Season 13?
The winner of Celebrity Worst Cooks in America Season 13 was Nick Lachey, the former *98 Degrees* singer and television personality. Throughout the season, Lachey showcased a remarkable transformation in his cooking abilities, going from a self-proclaimed kitchen novice to a confident competitor. His dedication to learning the fundamentals of cooking, guided by the show’s mentors, impressed both the judges and viewers at home.
During the finale, Lachey faced off against former NBA player Rick Fox in a high-pressure cook-off judged by professional chefs. His final dishes, which demonstrated both taste and technique, were enough to secure his victory. His win not only highlighted his personal growth but also served as an inspiration for other home cooks who start with little culinary experience.
Which celebrities competed in Season 13 of Celebrity Worst Cooks in America?
Celebrity Worst Cooks in America Season 13 featured a mix of beloved entertainment and sports figures who all admitted to struggling in the kitchen. Competitors included Nick Lachey, Rick Fox, Maia Campbell, Gary Coleman (celebrated posthumously), Keshia Knight Pulliam, Omarosa Manigault Newman, and Jon Doe. Each contestant entered the season with a goal to improve their cooking skills while navigating weekly challenges and eliminations.
The season followed a competitive structure where contestants were coached by chef mentors who provided guidance throughout the process. Despite their different backgrounds, all participants shared humorous and sometimes dramatic moments during cooking tasks. The season culminated in an intense finale between two of the strongest remaining competitors, highlighting how far they had come since the beginning.
What were the key moments from Nick Lachey’s journey on the show?
From the beginning, Nick Lachey candidly admitted he rarely stepped into a kitchen. His early attempts at simple dishes were met with mixed results, including overcooked proteins and flavor missteps. However, Lachey’s willingness to take feedback, his sense of humor, and his determination made him a fan favorite. Judges often commended his improvements, especially when he nailed complex flavors that earlier in the season seemed out of reach.
In later episodes, Lachey stepped up as a leader in team challenges, helping his fellow contestants stay calm under pressure. His most impressive moments included mastering dishes like duck and seafood, signaling his culinary evolution. In the final showdown, he composed a well-balanced three-course meal that showed off his technical skills and creativity. These highlights exemplified his impressive arc from worst cook to champion.
How did Rick Fox perform during the season, and why was he a finalist?
Rick Fox, known for his NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, was a standout throughout Season 13. Initially, he admitted to leaning heavily on takeout and basic meals, but he had a knack for creativity in the kitchen from the start. His bold flavor choices and ability to bounce back from early failures made him a consistent presence in challenges. He often impressed the judges with flavor combinations and plating skills that far surpassed expectations.
Fox was a finalist not only because of his taste improvements but also due to his teamwork and competitive spirit. He helped teammates stay upbeat during difficult challenges and consistently received praise for the balance in his dishes. In the finale, he went head-to-head with Nick Lachey, delivering a refined meal that was close to winning the title. Ultimately, while he didn’t take the crown, Fox’s journey was a testament to the show’s transformational impact.
What role did the chef mentors play in the competitors’ development?
The chef mentors on Celebrity Worst Cooks in America Season 13 played a crucial role in turning inexperienced cooks into capable ones. Coaches such as Chef Anne Burrell and Chef Matthew Accarrino offered technical instruction, time-management strategies, and emotional support. Daily tips on seasoning, knife skills, and plating helped contestants progress far beyond their starting skill level.
Mentors also tailored their approach to each competitor’s learning curve, addressing individual weaknesses with specific advice. Whether it was correcting overcooked proteins or refining plating presentation, the chefs ensured that each contestant walked away with practical tools for real-life cooking. Their instruction and encouragement were key in helping the final showdown come down to two truly transformed home cooks.
What were the most embarrassing cooking moments in Season 13?
Throughout the season, there were several memorable mishaps that left contestants and viewers chuckling. One of the most shocking was when a contestant placed raw chicken into a blender with garnish and tossed them all together—uncooked. Another embarrassing incident involved Maia Campbell accidentally setting fire to a dish while attempting a flambé technique under time pressure. These moments emphasized the learning curve the celebrities faced.
There were other awkward culinary attempts, like attempts at making seafood dishes that ended up with unidentifiable textures or flavor profiles. Rick Fox once confused basil with mint, affecting the outcome of a critical dish, while others struggled to identify basic kitchen tools. While these moments were cringe-worthy, they also provided valuable learning opportunities and gave audiences genuine entertainment, reminding everyone that making mistakes is part of the process.
What did the contestants gain from participating besides the win?
Nick Lachey and the other contestants gained a wealth of culinary knowledge that extended beyond the show. Under the guidance of professional chefs, each participant learned how to properly season dishes, manage kitchen time efficiently, and present food attractively. Many admitted after the season that they felt more confident cooking at home for their families and friends.
Besides the skills, they formed friendships and shared lighthearted moments that made the experience memorable. Viewers saw their personal growth, perseverance, and ability to laugh at themselves even when things went wrong. Whether it was overcoming fear of a gas stove or nailing a soufflé, the contestants left the show with lifelong tools and new appreciation for the art of cooking regardless of who took home the trophy.