LegendaryChef

LegendaryChef Logo (Series 42)

**LegendaryChef**, a cornerstone of British culinary television, debuted on ITV on 8 March 1997. Created by the esteemed writer Janette Ho, this competitive cooking show has entrenched itself as a key component of ITV's programming. Each hour-long episode is a showcase of culinary skill and competitive zeal, securing its place as a favorite among viewers. The show's unique format presents a range of innovative and demanding culinary challenges, captivating audiences with its fusion of high-stakes cookery and artistic ingenuity. Over its impressive tenure, LegendaryChef has unfailingly attracted viewers, spanning an extraordinary 41 seasons. This enduring popularity and continuous reinvention highlight its significant role in the evolution of cooking competitions.

Currently, the show is broadcasting its 42nd series, which marks a significant milestone in its history. This latest series is distinguished as an "All-Stars" series, a groundbreaking concept for the main show. For the first time, finalists from every past series, from the inaugural series to the 41st, excluding only the anniversary series, are welcomed back. This unprecedented reunion of former contestants in the main series adds a thrilling new dimension to the competition, reinvigorating the show with a blend of nostalgia and fresh culinary battles.

In 2037, the spin-off "LegendaryChef: After Hours" aired its third series but faced an abrupt conclusion due to unforeseen contestant complications. This companion series, aired alongside the main show, provided an alternative perspective on the LegendaryChef narrative, further augmenting the show's extensive and illustrious legacy.

## Judging Panel

The judging panel of "LegendaryChef" has evolved significantly over its broadcast history. As of the latest series, the panel consists of various roles, each with distinct responsibilities and history within the show. Below is a detailed overview of the current and past judges and their roles.

### Current Panel Composition

##### **Head Judges:**

* **Larissa Hurst**
	+ Joined the panel in Series 31 (2027)
	+ Ascended to Head Judge in Series 36 (2032)

* **Ollie Huffman**
	+ Joined in Series 31 (2027)
	+ Promoted to Head Judge in Series 42 (2038)

##### **Assistant Head Judge:** Timothee Rocha

* Joined in Series 34 (2030)
* Promoted to Assistant Head Judge in Series 42 (2038)

##### **Senior Judges:**

* **Melanie Atkins & Miya Mykee**
	+ Joined in Series 36 (2032)
	+ Promoted to Senior Judges in Series 41 (2037)

#### **Notable Past Positions**

**President Judge:** Vacant since Series 35 (2031)

* Last held by 3rd President Jan McMillan (Series 31-35)
* Jan McMillan's tenure began in Series 13 (2009), marking a distinguished presence on the show
* Position has remained vacant since Series 35, reflecting a shift in the show's leadership structure

* **Judge:** Position last held in Series 40 (2036)

* **Junior Judge:** Position last held in Series 36 (2032)

* **Guest Judge:** Position last held in Series 41 (2037)

**Additional Notes:**

* The President Judge position, established in Series 4, has been a pivotal role in the show's history. Following the departure of Jan McMillan after Series 35, the show announced the temporary vacancy of this position, acknowledging the recent changes in leadership roles with the new Head and Assistant Head Judges.

### Former Judges

1. Billy Knightly: Series 1 to 20. (Last position held: President Judge, Guest Judge during 30th Anniversary Series)
2. Sarah Cross: Series 1 to 5. (Last position held: Head Judge, Guest Judge during 10th, 30th and 40th Anniversary Series)
3. Isaac Weir: Series 1 to 7. (Last position held: Head Judge, Guest Judge during 30th Anniversary Series)
4. Hayden J: Series 4 to 12. (Last position held: Head Judge, Guest Judge during 30th Anniversary Series)
5. Zarah Bell: Series 6 to 10. (Last position held: Assistant Head Judge)
6. Lucinda Horne: Series 7 to 30. (Last position held: President Judge)
7. Ameera Romero: Series 10 to 35. (Last position held: Head Judge)
8. Jan Mcmillan: Series 13 to 35. (Last position held: President Judge)
9. Viola Phelps: Series 22 to 30. (Last position held: Senior Judge)
10. Edgar Reyes: Series 22 to 33. (Last position held: Assistant Head Judge)
11. Tegan Ramos: Series 35; 40 to 41 (Guest Judge)

## Presentation and Production Team

The show is brought to life by a dedicated team overseeing its presentation and production:

### Hosts

* **Nancy O'Connor:** A pivotal figure in the show's history, Nancy has been the lead host since Series 28 in 2024, bringing a blend of expertise and charisma to the role.
* **Elliot Lin:** A brand new Host, Elliot has been a host since Series 41 in 2037.

### Narrator

* **Ruby Bailey:** A brand new Narrator of the show, replacing Anita Navarro, who resigned following the Series 40 anniversary. Ruby has been the narrator since Series 41 in 2037.

### Showrunner

* **Oskar Sanford:** Stepping into the role in 2032 during Series 36, Oskar Sanford took over from Emmie Chavez, who resigned after the Series 35 anniversary. Sanford's journey with the show began earlier, as he joined the production team in Series 21 (2017), contributing to its evolving success. He is the current longest-running staff member in the programme. He is the third-longest serving member of the production staff.

### Executive Team

* **Executive Producer, India Church:** India has been at the helm of the production since Series 36 (2032), having been a part of the team since Series 23 in 2019. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the show's direction.
* **Executive Producer, Yousef Hancock:** Yousef has been an Executive Producer since Series 41 (2037). He joined the team in Series 23 in 2019.
* **Co-Executive Producer, Maya Jarvis:** Maya recently joined the Executive Team during Series 41 (2037). She has been part of the team since Series 31 in 2027.

### Producers

* **Jensen Estrada:** Jensen became a Senior Producer during Series 41 (2037) and has been part of the production team since Series 31 (2027).
* **Alicia Moses & Travis Hawkins:** Joining in Series 32 (2028), Alicia and Travis have brought innovative ideas and techniques to the production. They became Senior Producers during Series 42 (2038).
* **Amina Knapp, Elijah Mendez & Sadia Kaufman:** They joined the production team in Series 36 (2032), the trio has infused the show with new perspectives and energy, continuing its legacy of excellence.
* **Joe Martin & Lacie Harper:** Joe and Lacie are the newest additions to the production team joining in Series 40 (2036) and are currently Junior Producers.

### Former Presentation and Production Team Staff

#### Narrators

1. Rochelle Ford: Series 1 to 5.
2. Mina Vang: Series 6 to 13.
3. Isabella Browning: Series 14 to 23.
4. Anita Navarro: Series 24 to 40.

#### Production Team

1. Louis Haney: Series 1 to 3. (Last position held: Producer)
2. Jacques Hanley: Series 1 to 5. (Last position held: Producer)
3. Fynley Greaves: Series 1 to 6. (Last position held: Executive Producer)
4. Emmie Chavez: Series 1 to 16; 23 to 35. (Last position held: Showrunner)
5. Ross Hudson: Series 5 to 30. (Last position held: Showrunner)
6. Rosanna Wagner: Series 7 to 10. (Last position held: Producer)
7. Karina Johnston: Series 7 to 12. (Last position held: Producer)
8. Glenn Stanley: Series 7 to 20. (Last position held: Executive Producer)
9. Jade Ortiz: Series 15 to 28. (Last position held: Co-Executive Producer)
10. Preston Brewer: Series 15 to 30. (Last position held: Executive Producer)
11. Madison Aguilar: Series 21 to 30. (Last position held: Co-Executive Producer)
12. Dalton Freeman, Frankie Nicholas, Imogen Bennett and Yunus Lynn: Series 23 to 25. (Last position held: Junior Producer)
13. Allan Lane: Series 23 to 27. (Last position held: Associate Producer)
14. Lucy Dyer, Shane Park and Harriet Blankenship: Series 23 to 30. (Last position held: Consulting Producer)

## Pre-Trials Interviewers

The current Interviewers who are dedicated to giving us all talented contestants and they are only in the Pre-Trials rounds and the staff includes (The same interviewers judge in the "cooking section" rounds):

* **Head Interviewer:** Tegan Ramos – A towering figure in the culinary selection domain, embodying a synthesis of seasoned expertise and exacting standards. As an interviewer, Tegan's profile is marked by a formidable blend of experience and acute judgment, shaped within the bustling confines of Britain's most revered Fish & Chips and Curry establishments. Her transition from the kitchen's heat to the interview panel has not dulled her rigor; instead, it has sharpened her ability to discern culinary aptitude with pinpoint accuracy. Tegan is not merely an interviewer; she is a gatekeeper to the prestigious 'trials', ensuring only those with a verifiable mastery of their craft are considered. Her interview and cooking section, notorious for its stringency, has been the turning point for many promising aspirants whose initial "S" ratings in the interview phase have plummeted to middling "C's" and modest "3's" under the heat of her kitchen scrutiny. This stark disparity in performance underscores the intensity of Tegan's assessment, a crucible in which only the truly skilled and unflinchingly dedicated emerge unscathed. Under Tegan's exacting gaze, interviewees quickly learn that only the utmost preparedness will suffice. Her reputation precedes her; to be interviewed by Tegan Ramos is to be thoroughly vetted by a connoisseur of culinary talent, a testament to her stringent standards and the high caliber of candidates she ushers through to the 'official rounds' of the trials.

**Tegan's Interviewing style**

* Tegan Ramos' interviewing ethos embodies a relentless pursuit of substantiated excellence. In her interviews, every statement made by a candidate is underpinned by the expectation of tangible proof. This unwavering standard ensures that only those with demonstrable expertise and validated experiences advance in the selection process. Her approach resonates with a judicial precision; it's not enough for candidates to articulate their skills and accolades, they must unequivocally prove them. When a candidate makes a claim, whether it's regarding their skill set, experience, or the esteem in which they are held by current or past employers, Tegan requires incontrovertible evidence. If a candidate claims to excel in a particular culinary technique, she expects to see a practical demonstration or verified documentation of this expertise. If they speak of awards or recognition, she demands to see certificates or corroborating articles. And, as earlier discussed, if the conversation turns to the regard of their peers or employers, nothing less than recorded testimonials will suffice. This insistence on evidence does more than just ascertain the veracity of a candidate's claims; it also instills a culture of accountability. Candidates learn that in Tegan's domain, unsubstantiated statements are not merely taken with a grain of salt—they are disregarded altogether. This rigorous scrutiny ensures that her panel only endorses candidates who are not just theoretically proficient but also practically exceptional. In the high-stakes world of competitive culinary arts, where the proof is indeed in the pudding, Tegan's approach is both apt and necessary. It guarantees that those who pass through the pre-trials under her watch are not just good with words but are also artisans of their craft, whose capabilities have been thoroughly vetted and proven. For Tegan, the culinary trial is not just a competition but a testament to the integrity and skill of those who stand behind the stoves.

**Tegan's Judging Style (Cooking Section)**

* As a judge in the cooking section, Tegan's evaluation is a testament to her roots in the high-pressure culinary world. Her adjudication style mirrors the intensity of a professional kitchen, demanding precision, adaptability, and innovation. She expects candidates to not only execute recipes with technical finesse but to do so under the scrutinizing pressure akin to a professional kitchen environment. Here, she is known to meticulously inspect every chop, sear, and seasoning, expecting dishes that resonate with authenticity and flair. Tegan's judgment is far from subjective whimsy; it is a calibrated measure of a contestant's readiness for the high stakes of competitive cooking. She ensures that those who advance are not just competent cooks, but are individuals who can withstand the culinary trials' rigors and thrive in the face of its relentless demands. The stark divergence in candidate ratings between the interview and cooking phases under her watch speaks volumes of her uncompromising benchmark. In essence, Tegan Ramos stands as a paragon of culinary excellence, her profile as an interviewer and judge reflects a relentless pursuit of perfection. To be vetted by her is to have one's culinary mettle tested in the most exhaustive manner, an endeavor that separates the wheat from the chaff, ensuring that only the most proficient and passionate chefs grace the trials' subsequent stages.

* **Senior Interviewer:** Jamie Pacheco — A Senior Interviewer since 2029, Jamie's expertise spans Asian, Italian, and Mexican cuisines. His approach is one of empathy and attentiveness, focusing on the candidates' technical abilities and efficiency in the kitchen during the second pre-trial stage.
* **Senior Interviewer:** Casper Shaw — Joined the interview panel in 2029 and was promoted to Senior Interviewer during Series 41 (2037). His experience as a Japanese restaurant owner and chef lends him a unique perspective, focusing on the candidates' personality and potential for development throughout the competition stages.
* **Interviewer:** Laura Church — Laura joined the interviewing team in Series 41 (2037) and brings a wealth of experience from her illustrious career as a chef. At 46, Laura's culinary journey is marked by her tenure as a Head Chef in a prestigious 5-star restaurant in London, where she led the kitchen from the age of 28 until she was 42. Her transition from the high-pressure environment of a top-tier restaurant to the world of television chefing showcases her adaptability and passion for culinary arts. Laura's Italian cuisine expertise is coupled with her meticulous attention to detail. She is known for her insistence on precision in presentation, advocating for dishes that stand out through their intricate detailing and well-thought-out execution. Her philosophy revolves around the belief that the devil is in the details, and this is what she looks for in candidates — a keen eye for the fine points that elevate a dish from good to exceptional.
* **Interviewer:** Carys Lester — Carys, a dynamic and forward-thinking chef, has been part of the interviewing team since Series 41 (2037). At just 28 years old, she currently works at a renowned Chinese-style restaurant in London, where she continues to refine her craft. As a chef specializing in Chinese cuisine, Carys brings a fresh perspective to the panel, characterized by her desire to challenge the status quo. Her approach to culinary arts is anything but traditional; she seeks candidates who are daring, innovative, and unafraid to experiment with unique ingredients and unconventional techniques. Carys champions the idea of the chef as a trailblazer, breaking free from traditional culinary boundaries to create something truly unique and personal. She encourages candidates to assert their individuality in the kitchen, emphasizing the importance of mastering the fundamentals but then using that knowledge to defy and redefine established norms. Her belief is that culinary innovation comes from those who dare to lead and not just follow.

#### Average Pass & Fail Rates

The following are the pass and fail rates of all the current staff of the Pre-Trials stages.

Tegan Ramos (Head Interviewer): Pass (51.09%); Fail (48.91%)

Jamie Pacheco (Senior Interviewer): Pass (85.81%); Fail (14.19%)

Casper Shaw (Interviewer): Pass (75.28%); Fail (24.72%)

### Former Pre-Trials Staff

**Milaha Villanueva (Former Senior Interviewer)** — Serving as a Senior Interviewer from **Series 33 to 39**, Milaha Villanueva brought an exceptional blend of academic insight and practical expertise in Jamaican cuisine to the panel. Joining the team in 2029, her background was distinguished by a profound understanding of Caribbean culinary traditions, shaped by both her Jamaican heritage and extensive scholarly research. Milaha's philosophy in evaluating candidates centered around two core principles: passion and creativity. She believed that true culinary excellence emerges from chefs who not only demonstrate technical proficiency but also exhibit a willingness to push the boundaries of traditional cooking. Her tenure on the panel was marked by an enthusiastic encouragement of chefs who brought fresh, innovative ideas to the table, effectively infusing the show with diverse and vibrant culinary perspectives.

**Aisha Bryan (Former Interviewer)** — Aisha Bryan's tenure as an interviewer from **Series 33 to 39** was nothing short of legendary. Having joined the panel in 2029 at the remarkable age of 99 and leaving at the age of 107, Aisha brought with her an astounding eighty years of culinary experience from a top London restaurant. Her approach to interviewing was uniquely multifaceted: she adeptly combined casual, engaging conversation with a rigorous evaluation of the candidates' fundamental culinary skills. Aisha was known for her keen eye in assessing crucial aspects like time management, ingredient respect, and the ability to maintain composure under pressure. Her longevity in the culinary field provided her with a deep reservoir of knowledge and experience, making her insights invaluable. Aisha's presence on the panel was a bridge between the rich history of culinary arts and the ever-evolving modern gastronomic landscape, offering candidates a rare opportunity to learn from a true master of the craft.

## Series Logo

Series 1 to Series 26 Logo (1997 to 2022)
Series 27 Logo (2023) Created by: Showrunner, Ross HudsonSeries 28 Logo (2024) Created by: Showrunner, Ross HudsonSeries 29 Logo (2025) Created by: Showrunner, Ross HudsonSeries 30 Logo (2026) Created by: Showrunner, Ross Hudson (Her last Series as Showrunner)
Series 31 Logo (2027) Created by: New Showrunner, Emmie ChavezSeries 32 Logo (2028) Created by: Showrunner, Emmie ChavezSeries 33 (2029) Created by: Showrunner, Emmie ChavezSeries 34 Logo (2030) Created by: Showrunner, Emmie Chavez (Her last "Regular Series" as Showrunner)Series 35 Logo (2031) Created by: Showrunner, Emmie Chavez - (Her Last Series as Showrunner)
Series 36 Logo (2032) Created by: New Showrunner, Oskar SanfordSeries 37 Logo (2033) Created by: Showrunner, Oskar SanfordSeries 38 Logo (2034) Created by: Showrunner, Oskar SanfordSeries 39 Logo (2035) Created by: Showrunner, Oskar SanfordSeries 40 Logo (2036) Created by: Showrunner, Oskar SanfordSeries 41 Logo (2037) Created by: Showrunner, Oskar Sanford
## Showrunner Symbols

1st Showrunner: Ross Hudson2nd Showrunner: Emmie Chavez3rd Showrunner: Oskar Sanford
## Judges

 Billy Knightly
 Isaac Weir
 Sarah Cross
 Hayden J
 Zarah Bell
 Lucinda Horne
 Ameera Romero
 Jan Mcmillan
 Edgar Reyes
 Viola Phelps
 Larissa Hurst
 Ollie Huffman
 Timothy Rocha

 Emmie Chavez

## LegendaryChef: Series Format

### Format (Since Series 33: 2029)

From 2022 (Series 26) onwards, "LegendaryChef" has consistently presented a challenging and competitive format, reserving the spotlight for contestants who have not had the opportunity to participate in prior series. The competition is meticulously structured into progressive rounds, each crafted to test the contestants' culinary prowess and resilience. These stages are designed to incrementally eliminate contestants, ultimately leading to the crowning of a deserving winner.
The addition of the "pre-trials" in 2029 added a layer of thorough screening and evaluation, ensuring that those who advance to the trials are well-deserving and bring a diverse array of skills and creativity to the table. Moreover, starting from Series 41 (2037), candidates are required to meet additional criteria to qualify for the Pre-Trials:

1. **Professional Experience:** Must be a Chef of a restaurant classed of at least a four-star rating.
2. **Team Endorsement:** Need to receive positives from the Chef team in the restaurant, which aids in understanding the candidate's capabilities and teamwork skills.

#### **Pre-Trials (Interview & Basic Cooking Sections)**

The "Pre-Trials" are designed to serve as an essential and exhaustive screening process that meticulously sifts through contestants before they advance to the main event of the cooking show, aptly termed the "Trials". This phase, while not being the "official" start of the competition, plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing potential culinary talents. The Pre-Trials begin with a total of 100 candidates, in which you have to prove yourself worthy of advancing. Each Interviewer has their own individual interests for advancing a candidate, ensuring each candidate not only having one or a couple of specialities. This stage in itself would be considered a "mini competition" to advance into the official competition, of the "Trials" stage.

* **Purpose of Pre-Trials:**
	+ The Pre-Trials are strategically put in place to assess whether the candidates meet the stringent standards expected by the show. These rounds are not merely eliminative but also evaluative, aiming to explore the facets of each candidate's culinary acumen.
	+ Through interviews and cooking tasks, the organizers gain insights into the contestants' capabilities, ensuring that only the most deserving and promising talents proceed to the Trials.
* **Assessment Criteria:**
	+ During each interview, the contestants are assessed on a spectrum of criteria that span across both technical and personal aspects. These include Technical Knowledge, Creativity, Communication Skills, Adaptability, Culinary Experience, Cultural Awareness, and Personality.
	+ Each criterion plays a vital role in determining a candidate’s suitability for the competition. For instance, Technical Knowledge and Culinary Experience gauge their proficiency and background, while Creativity and Adaptability test their ability to innovate and overcome culinary challenges.
	+ Personality, Communication Skills, and Cultural Awareness, on the other hand, delve into the candidates' ability to articulate their thoughts, their passion for the culinary arts, and their respect and understanding of diverse cuisines.
	+ During the interview stages, the interviews will decide which grade a candidate is given depending on the amount of points obtained: S (91-100 points), A+ (81-90), A (71-80), B (61-70), C (51-60), D (41-50), E (31-40), U (0-30). Candidates must achieve at least a Grade D to advance, even so, obtaining a D will lower your chances in advancing to the next Pre-Trial stage if they do a poor standard in the cooking section.
* **Process and Progression:**
	+ Candidates must first succeed in the interview, showcasing a blend of expertise, creativity, and personality, before they are given the opportunity to prove their mettle in the cooking section.
	+ Only upon successful completion and passing of all the interviews and cooking sections do candidates earn their place in the "Trials".
* **Significance:**
	+ The Pre-Trials are instrumental in ensuring that the competition begins on a high note, with participants who are not just skilled but also bring with them a diverse array of culinary perspectives.
	+ This careful selection process ensures that the audience witnesses a competition that is rich, engaging, and reflective of the high standards set by the show.

* **Pre-Trial 1:** First Interview & First Cooking Section
	+ ***Overview:*** Candidates are initially interviewed by a junior interviewer to assess their culinary knowledge and passion. Successful candidates, scoring at least a Grade D, advance to cook a one-course meal for the junior interviewer.
	+ ***Outcome:*** Upon success in the interview, and then the cooking section, candidates will advance to Pre-Trial 2.
* **Pre-Trial 2:** Second Interview & Second Cooking Section
	+ ***Overview:*** Successful candidates face a more senior interviewer and a rigorous interview. Those who pass are tasked with creating a two-course meal for the senior interviewer.
	+ ***Outcome:*** Based on interview and cooking performance, candidates are either advanced or eliminated.
* **Pre-Trial 3:** Third Interview & Third Cooking Section
	+ ***Overview:*** The final pre-trials round involves an interview with the top-ranked head interviewer, followed by a task to create a three-course meal for those who pass the interview in which they also cook for the head interviewer.
	+ ***Outcome:*** Candidates are passed or eliminated based on their cumulative performance.

#### Trials

* **Knowledge (Round 1):**
	+ **Overview:** The candidates who passed the **Pre-Trials** will compete to create 2 meals selected by the judges, emphasizing culinary knowledge and technique.
	+ **Eliminations:** The lowest 4 contestants are eliminated, with the next 2 lowest-scoring contestants placed at the bottom.

##### Pre-quarter-finals

* **Three-course meal (Round 2):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants are tasked with creating a comprehensive three-course meal of their choice.
	+ **Eliminations:** Similar to Round 1, the lowest 4 contestants are eliminated, and the subsequent 2 lowest-scoring contestants are placed at the bottom.

##### Quarter-finals

* **Cook for the critics (Round 3):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants must craft an exceptional meal to be judged by critics.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 4 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

#### Semi-finals

* **Restaurant Service (Round 4):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants operate in a typical 4-5 star restaurant, demonstrating their skills in a professional environment.
	+ **Eliminations:** 2 contestants are eliminated, and the next 2 lowest-scoring contestants are placed at the bottom.
* **Michelin-Star Restaurant Service (Round 5):**
	+ **Overview:** The challenge intensifies as contestants work in a Michelin-star restaurant.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 3 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated, with the next lowest placed at the bottom.

#### Finals

* **The last cook-off (Last round):**
	+ **Overview:** In the final round, the 3 remaining contestants must prepare an appetizer, starter, main meal, and dessert to perfection.
	+ **Outcome:** The judges meticulously scrutinize each dish for errors, ultimately determining the winner, runner-up, and third place.

## LegendaryChef: Anniversary Series Format

### Format Overview

Anniversary Series of **LegendaryChef** intensifies the competition by inviting only winners from previous regular series (finalists previously participated in the older Anniversary series). These series occur every **5 years**, distinct from the "Jubilee Series" marking special milestones.

#### Trials

* **(High) Knowledge (Round 1):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants are challenged to craft dishes that require extensive culinary knowledge, chosen by the judges.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 2 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

* **(Rare) Ingredients (Round 2):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants are provided with unusual ingredients to create a unique meal.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 2 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

#### Pre-Quarter-Finals

* **Cook for Michelin-star chefs (Round 3):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants prepare meals for Michelin-star chefs and judges.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 2 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

* **Showstopper Meal (Round 4):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants create a remarkable "showstopper" meal.
	+ **Elimination:** The lowest-scoring contestant is eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

### Quarter-Finals

* **Party Service (Round 5):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants cater to a party of 10-15 guests, emphasizing teamwork.
	+ **Elimination:** The lowest-scoring contestant is eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

* **(Very High) Knowledge (Round 6):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants create dishes requiring exceptionally advanced knowledge.
	+ **Elimination:** The lowest-scoring contestant is eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

* **(Very Rare) Ingredients (Round 7):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants use extremely rare ingredients to craft a meal.
	+ **Elimination:** The lowest-scoring contestant is eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

### Semi-Finals

* **Event Service (Round 8):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants cater to an event of approximately 100 people.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 2 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

* **Showstopper three-course meal (Round 9):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants prepare a three-course meal of showstopping quality.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 2 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated, and the next 2 are placed at the bottom.

* **VIP Service (Round 10):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants serve VIP guests, ensuring top-tier quality and service.
	+ **Eliminations:** The lowest 4 contestants are eliminated, with no contestants placed at the bottom thereafter.

### Finals

* **Major Event Service (Round 11):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants cater to a large event serving around 500 people.
	+ **Eliminations:** The 2 lowest-scoring contestants are eliminated.

* **Royalty Service (Round 12):**
	+ **Overview:** Contestants create a banquet fit for royalty, which is also sampled by real-life royals.
	+ **Elimination:** The lowest-scoring contestant is eliminated.

* **The last cook-off (Last round):**
	+ **Overview:** The final 3 contestants present their best three-course meal.
	+ **Outcome:** The judges determine the 3rd place, runner-up, and winner.

## Judge's Ratings in LegendaryChef

### Grades

Judges evaluate contestants on a scale of 1-5 in the following categories:

* **Taste:** Given the highest priority, the taste of the dish plays a significant role in determining the overall score.
* **Food Quality:** The quality and freshness of the ingredients used are assessed.
* **Appearance:** The visual appeal and presentation of the dish are judged.
* **Service Speed:** The time taken to prepare and serve the dish is considered, albeit with less weightage.

### Overall Score

The "Overall Score" in the competition is assigned on a scale ranging from 1 to 5. This score primarily reflects the quality of Taste, with Service Speed having the least impact on the final score. Each judging category's importance is meticulously weighed to determine the overall score. As of Series 40, the competition has witnessed a total of 395 instances where contestants achieved the highest overall score of 5. In contrast, there have been only 16 occurrences of the lowest overall score of 1, highlighting the rarity of such an outcome.

### Perfect Score

Attaining a "Perfect Score" is a significant achievement in the competition, requiring a contestant to secure a score of 5 in each individual judging category. As established in Season 21, achieving a Perfect Score not only signifies exceptional culinary proficiency but also ensures automatic advancement to the subsequent round of the competition. This achievement takes precedence over other recognitions such as the Gold Chef, Silver Chef, and Bronze Chef accolades. Up to Series 40, there have been 64 instances of contestants accomplishing Perfect Scores. Remarkably, the competition has also recorded two instances of achieving the lowest possible "perfect" grade of 1, an exceedingly rare and noteworthy occurrence.

### Gold, Silver & Bronze Chef Awards

At the end of each round, aside from announcing eliminations, judges may bestow the titles of:

* **Gold Chef:** Awarded to the top-performing chef of the round.
* **Silver Chef:** Given to the second-best chef of the round.
* **Bronze Chef:** Awarded to the third-best chef of the round.

These titles are discretionary and are only conferred upon deserving contestants.

### Tokens

Post each round, contestants may earn tokens based on their overall grades:

* **Overall Grade 4:** Earns 1 token.
* **Overall Grade 5:** Earns 2 tokens.
* **Perfect Score:** Earns 3 tokens.

### Bottom

Contestants narrowly avoiding elimination are placed in the "bottom". The number varies from 1-2 depending on the round. Contestants are not placed in the bottom during the finals.

## Prizes

### Main Series Prizes

The competition awards monetary prizes at various stages, with the amounts increasing as contestants progress further in the competition. The prize distribution is designed to reward the achievements of the contestants at each significant milestone.
**Winner:** The contestant who emerges victorious in the final round of the competition is awarded a grand prize of £250,000. This substantial amount reflects the high level of skill, dedication, and performance required to win the competition.

* **Winner:** The contestant who emerges victorious in the final round of the competition is awarded a grand prize of £250,000. This substantial amount reflects the high level of skill, dedication, and performance required to win the competition.
* **Runner-Up:** The contestant who finishes in second place is rewarded with £100,000. This significant prize acknowledges the high level of competition and the narrow margin that often separates the winner from the runner-up.
* **Third Place:** The contestant securing the third position receives £75,000, a testament to their exceptional performance throughout the competition.
* **Semi-Finals (Round 2):** Each contestant who reaches the second round of the semi-finals is awarded £50,000. This stage of the competition represents a critical juncture, and this prize reflects the achievement of making it this far.
* **Semi-Finalist (Round 1):** Contestants who make it to the first round of the semi-finals but do not advance further receive £25,000. This prize recognizes the significant accomplishment of being among the top competitors.
* **Quarter-Finalist:** Reaching the quarter-final stage is rewarded with £10,000. This stage is often where the competition intensifies, and this prize acknowledges the skill required to reach this level.
* **Pre-Quarter-Finalist:** Contestants who reach the pre-quarter-final stage are awarded £5,000. This stage is a stepping stone towards the higher echelons of the competition.
* **Trials:** Participants who make it through the trials, an early yet crucial stage of the competition, receive £2,500. This prize is an acknowledgment of the contestants' potential and skill.
* **Pre-Trials (Round 3 - the last pre-trials round, before the main competition):** Contestants who reach the final round of the pre-trials, just before entering the main competition, are awarded £1,000.
* **Pre-Trials (Round 2 - not entered the main competition):** Participants in the second round of the pre-trials, who have not yet entered the main competition, receive £500. This early-stage prize encourages contestants and recognizes their efforts.

### Anniversary Series Prizes

The Anniversary Series, a special edition occurring every five years, features a more substantial prize pool. This series exclusively welcomes back former winners of the main series, making it a prestigious and fiercely competitive event.

* **Winner:** The champion of the Anniversary Series is awarded a staggering £500,000, doubling the main series' top prize. This reflects the extraordinary achievement of winning among a group of past champions.
* **Runner-Up:** The second-placed contestant receives £300,000, recognizing the exceptional skill and performance required to reach this stage in such a competitive series.
* **Third Place:** The contestant finishing in third position is awarded £200,000, a significant prize that acknowledges their elite status among former winners.
* **Finalist (Round 2):** Contestants reaching the second round of the finals are awarded £100,000, recognizing their sustained excellence throughout the series.
* **Finalist (Round 1):** Achieving a position in the first round of the finals is rewarded with £75,000, highlighting the advanced level of competition in the series.
* **Semi-Finalist (Round 3):** Contestants reaching the third round of the semi-finals earn £50,000, a testament to their skill and perseverance in the competition.
* **Semi-Finalist (Round 2):** Reaching the second round of the semi-finals secures a prize of £25,000, acknowledging the contestants' advanced skills and competition experience.
* **Semi-Finalist (Round 1):** For making it to the first round of the semi-finals, contestants receive £10,000, a significant achievement in this elite series.
* **Quarter-Finalist (Round 3):** Those reaching the third round of the quarter-finals are awarded £5,000, recognizing their competitive prowess.
* **Quarter-Finalist (Round 2):** Achieving a place in the second round of the quarter-finals yields a prize of £2,500, a mark of the contestants' advanced abilities.
* **Quarter-Finalist (Round 1):** Participants who make it to the first round of the quarter-finals earn £1,000, acknowledging their skill in this exclusive competition.
* **Pre-Quarter-Finalist (Round 2):** Contestants reaching the second round of the pre-quarter-finals are awarded £750, a nod to their continued competitive spirit.
* **Pre-Quarter-Finalist (Round 1):** Making it to the first round of the pre-quarter-finals secures a prize of £500, recognizing the contestants' efforts in this prestigious series.
* **Trials (Round 2):** Participants who advance through the second round of the trials receive £250, acknowledging their skills and determination.
* **Trials (Round 1):** Contestants who pass the first round of the trials are awarded £100, a token acknowledging their entry into this elite competition.

### Jubilee Series Prizes

The Jubilee Series, epitomizing the zenith of competitive achievement, is reserved for an elite group of contestants: those who have not only won a main series but have also been finalists in an Anniversary Series. This rare and prestigious event, occurring only during milestone series such as the 25th, 50th, 60th, etc., offers the most lucrative prize structure in the competition's history.

* **Winner:** The ultimate victor of the Jubilee Series is awarded an astounding £1,000,000. This prize is a testament to the unparalleled skill, perseverance, and excellence required to triumph in the most elite and competitive series of all.
* **Runner-Up:** The contestant finishing in second place receives £750,000, a substantial reward that acknowledges the incredibly high level of competition and the thin margins that separate the top contestants.
* **Third Place:** Securing the third position in this elite series is rewarded with £500,000, recognizing the exceptional talent and effort required to reach this stage among such distinguished competitors.
* **Semi-Finalist (Round 2):** Contestants reaching the second round of the semi-finals are awarded £300,000. This prize honors their sustained excellence and ability to compete at the highest levels.
* **Semi-Finalist (Round 1):** Achieving a place in the first round of the semi-finals secures a prize of £250,000, a significant accomplishment in a series that represents the zenith of competitive prowess.
* **Quarter-Finalist (Round 3):** Contestants reaching the third round of the quarter-finals earn £100,000, acknowledging their elite status and competitive skills in this prestigious series.
* **Quarter-Finalist (Round 2):** A prize of £75,000 is awarded to those who make it to the second round of the quarter-finals, highlighting their advanced abilities in a series of this stature.
* **Quarter-Finalist (Round 1):** Participants who reach the first round of the quarter-finals are rewarded with £50,000, recognizing their skill and achievement in qualifying for and competing in the Jubilee Series.
* **Pre-Quarter-Finalist (Round 2):** Contestants reaching the second round of the pre-quarter-finals receive £25,000, a nod to their competitive spirit and ability to compete among the best of the best.
* **Pre-Quarter-Finalist (Round 1):** Making it to the first round of the pre-quarter-finals is rewarded with £10,000, acknowledging the contestants' efforts in this most elite and rare series.
* **Trials (Round 2):** Participants who advance through the second round of the trials are awarded £5,000, a recognition of their skills and determination in a series where every contestant is a proven champion.
* **Trials (Round 1):** Contestants who pass the first round of the trials receive £2,500, marking their entry into the most prestigious and challenging series of the competition.

## Awards & Nominations

#### BAFTA Awards

* 2010 (Series 14): Nominated for Best Daytime.
* 2011 (Series 15): Nominated for Best Daytime.
* 2012 (Series 16): Won Best Daytime; Nominated for Best Entertainment Programme.
* 2013 (Series 17): Won Best Daytime; Nominated for Best Entertainment Programme.
* 2014 (Series 18): Won Best Daytime; Won Best Entertainment Programme; Nominated for Best Production Design.
* 2015 (Series 19): Won Best Daytime; Won Best Entertainment Programme.
* 2016 (Series 20): Won Best Features.
* 2017 (Series 21): Won Best Daytime.
* 2018 (Series 22): Won Best Features; Won Best Daytime; Won Best Entertainment Programme.
* 2019 (Series 23): Won Best Production Design; Won Best Features; Won Best Daytime.
* 2020 (Series 24): Won Best Features; Won Best Daytime.
* 2021 - 2027 (Series 25 - 31): Consistently Won Best Daytime; Won Best Entertainment Programme; Won Best Production Design each year.
* 2028 - 2031 (Series 32 - 35): Continuously Won Best Daytime; Won Best Entertainment Programme; Won Best Production Design; Won Best Entertainment Performance each year.
* 2032 (Series 36): Won Best DayTime; Won Best Entertainment Programme; Won Best Production Design; Won Best Entertainment Performance; Won Best Reality and Constructed Factual; Nominated Best Features.
* 2033 - 2035 (Series 37 - 39): Won Best DayTime; Won Best Entertainment Programme; Won Best Production Design; Won Best Entertainment Performance; Won Best Features each year.
* 2036 (Series 40): Won Best DayTime; Won Best Entertainment Programme; Won Best Production Design; Won Best Entertainment Performance; Won Best Reality and Constructed Factual; Nominated Best Features.