Who is the host of Next Gen Chef? Olivia Culpo’s details explored

A new cooking competition, Next Gen Chef, hosted by Olivia Culpo, in which 21 emerging chefs compete to prove themselves at the storied Culinary Institute of America. Better known from pageants and modeling, her work on the show is a strategic pivot into food-TV hosting that pairs an enthusiasm for cooking with more than just personality.

Culpo first rose to fame in 2012 when she won Miss USA, Miss Universe, and Miss Rhode Island USA. Since then, she has worked in a restaurant, as a social media influencer, actress, and model. Yet hosting Netflix’s latest food TV show is the chance to present her love of food in a fresh light. She "could not be more excited" to assist in showcasing up-and-coming culinary talent, she stated in a recent statement.

Culpo hosts the program's eight 45-minute episodes, seven of which went live on Netflix today, September 17. Carlton McCoy and Kelsey Barnard Clark serve as judges. Next Gen Chef is going to show a side of Olivia that many people haven't seen before, one that is based on the celebration of food, opportunity, and mentorship, regardless of whether you've seen her on fashion stages, TV screens, or food posts.

Olivia Culpo’s journey to hosting Next Gen Chef

Olivia's journey to hosting Next Gen Chef combines her passion for cooking, her business endeavors, and her pageant accomplishment. She has confidence in front of cameras because of her experience in modeling and media, but she has also pushed herself by sharing recipes, discussing culinary culture, and having hands-on kitchen experiences. Her hosting role is more than just a job; it's a reflection of her growing interest in mentoring and food storytelling.

From pageants to personality — What Olivia brings to the show

Olivia Frances Culpo is one of a kind. Born and raised in Cranston, Rhode Island, she rose to the top as Miss Rhode Island USA 2012. She was also crowned Miss USA and Miss Universe. She has also proven that she is adaptable in the entertainment industry and has achieved a TV series, movies, advertisement shoots, and modeling with beauty pageants. The host of Next Gen Chef constantly shares recipes, cooking videos, and collabs with food brands on her Instagram page, giving away that she loves being in the kitchen.

Culpo stated her excitement about fusing her passion for cuisine with her job when Netflix announced her as a host. She wrote,

"Food has always been more than just a meal to me… it’s love, comfort, connection, and artistry."

Her genuine enthusiasm lends her hosting style a friendliness and relatability that are frequently lacking in competitive shows.

The host role in Next Gen Chef — Expectations & influence

Culpo's contribution to Next Gen Chef extends beyond merely posing problems. She’s the mediator between judges and contestants, educating viewers on what’s at stake, how creativity is expressed, and fevered growth comes to the boil in a kitchen. The format of the show, set at the Culinary Institute of America and rattling with high-stakes meals, dramatic turns, and guest judges, demands a host who can play master without taking over.

Culpo is settling into motherhood following the birth of her daughter, Colette, in 2025. She has spoken about trying to balance her work with the demands of motherhood. The idea is that her passion and compassion, not to mention being in front of the camera, will make those not-so camera-shy in her role as host.

She may be the type of host who motivates both new cooks and die-hard food TV enthusiasts due to her prominence in the media, fashion, culinary, and personal life industries.

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Watch Olivia Culpa on Next Gen Chef on Netflix.

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