Food TV

Tonight is the conclusion of the Next Food Network Star on Food Network. In less than an hour, one of two women will be given their own Food Network show for at least six episodes. Based on the talent offered in these remaining two, I’m hoping the reign really is only six episodes, but that’s for another article.

I have to admit I am dreading watching this last episode. It almost seems as bad as when Taylor Hicks went on to win American Idol even though he was substandard and unentertaining. What we are left with is…well, leftovers. Every one of the cast members had flaws, no doubt, but to be left with loud and snobby was much less than I was hoping for when I started watching this season.

I wrote an article the other day about Rory begging for votes and asking if people thought it was pathetic. Come to find out I didn’t know how far she and her family were willing to go to try and “win” this popularity contest. According to Second Helpings, Schepisi’s ability to beg is something she shares with her family and they were all in on the madness.

According to Second Helpings:

• Both Rory and family posted on message boards asking for votes
• Family members sent multiple (4 in a week) unsolicited “Email reminders” to media (Can you say Spam?)
• Family members sent email messages from a Sussex County Event Agency
• Rory and family paid to advertise on Celebrity websites

I’m sure that’s just the half of it, too. As much as I am not fond of Amy, at least she seems to have skills in the kitchen that are reminiscent of a Food Network Chef. Rory reminds me of the new kid in class that offers people presents of some kind in order to make new friends. This is supposed to be a test of skill and star quality. While neither has much in the way of star quality, you don’t see Amy begging the entire world to vote. Shouldn’t your food be able to stand up on its own? Apparently Rory doesn’t think her performances are enough to allow her to win. She has to beg and perhaps attempt to “buy” votes in hopes of winning.

It really is sad that something is so important to you that you think you have to play unfairly to win. Perhaps she knows she isn’t ready for this, as well. After all, if you know you have what it takes then you aren’t out trying to prove that you have the qualities to succeed. Like my Mama used to say, “Baby, if you’re intelligent you don’t need to tell people, they just know.” Apparently the support team behind Rory seems to think her performance did not stand up to the test since they are helping her to beg for the votes.

Either way, win or lose, she didn’t really win. It was degrading of her family to beg. The contest should have been allowed to be fair in every way and free of advertising that was on a personal level. If she wins I don’t think anyone will be really satisfied with the results. I plan to watch one episode from the winner, just to let everyone know my thoughts although, I am seriously hoping the last time I see Rory on Food Network is tonight. Here’s hoping!

Next Food Network Star, Rory Schepisi, Amy, Food TV, Beg for Votes