Carson Kressley Returns to BBQ Brawl Tonight
Style guru swaps runways for grill duty, teasing double episodes this week on Food Network

Image: Instagram
Carson Kressley is trading tailored suits for aprons tonight as he teases fans on Instagram to catch an all-new episode of #BBQBrawl on Food Network at 9/8c. In a playful post, the style guru joked that his taste buds are “on a day off” while the captains step in for the judging—before he returns for the final taste test.
A New Role For The Style Expert
Kressley first introduced himself to TV audiences as one of the original Fab Five on Bravo’s breakthrough series Queer Eye for the Straight Guy in 2003. Since then, he’s leveraged his fashion expertise into hosting gigs on How to Look Good Naked, RuPaul’s Drag Race, and Great Christmas Light Fight. Wikipedia notes he studied apparel design at Pennsylvania State University before moving to New York to pursue styling, photography and modeling.
On Instagram, @carsonkressley shared a shot of himself decked out in a vibrant chef’s apron and tinted sunglasses, grinning next to the show’s bars of spices and sizzling grills. “Tune in tonight @foodnetwork at 9/8c for an all new #BBQ Brawl,” he wrote. “Tonight me and my taste buds have a ‘day off’ and the captains will do a little judging (even though their outfits aren’t quite as cute as ours!). But don’t worry—I’ll be back in time for the final taste (and looking tasteful)!”
Grill Masters Take The Reins
In this week’s episode, Kressley steps aside to let the two veteran captains—Chefs Bobby Flay and Michael Symon—handle the judging duties. Viewers can expect back-to-back rounds of smoky brisket, pulled pork and inventive barbecue mashups as four contestants compete for a spot in the finale.
Double The Smoke
A related post from last week hinted at an extended grilling marathon. On Instagram, Kressley reminded fans that there would be “TWO Brand new back to back episodes of #BBQBrawl tonight at 9 and 10pm on @foodnetwork and streaming on @hbomax @discoveryplus!!! You’re welcome!” That tease underscores how the network is doubling down on prime-time barbecuing this season.
What To Expect Tonight
Each episode sees amateur pitmasters squaring off in a quickfire cook-off, followed by a more elaborate challenge designed to test creativity and technique. Kressley’s role usually involves providing witty commentary and style pointers—this week, he’ll return to weigh in on presentation and flavors as part of the final tasting panel.
Fans can stream tonight’s episodes live on Food Network or catch them later on HBO Max and Discovery Plus. Social media has already lit up with hashtags like #BBQBrawl and #GrillAndChill as followers gear up for a mouthwatering showdown.
Whether you know him from downtown fashion shoots or his irreverent hosting style, Carson Kressley brings a dose of levity to the competition. With his trademark humor and a wardrobe that could outshine any barbecue sauce, he’s set to make this week’s installment one to savor. Tune in at 9/8c—you won’t want to miss the final taste test.

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