Interesting perspective. Emeril as an occasional guest judge notwithstanding, TC seems to me to be the most legitimate of the cooking competition shows out there, in terms of attracting high-level talent from the exec-sous/chef de partie ranks ready to become exec chef/owner.

I think that in some of the more inconsistent seasons, the producers have thrown in more gimmicky challenges from time to time, which is a detractor. But (TC Duels notwithstanding) to me, it's the best of the lot. (And this from a guy who hosts an annual Chopped-like competition with judging, secret ingredients, and everything!)

Bam!