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Brooke Williamson Joins 'BBQ Brawl' as Judge

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/23/brooke-williamson-joins-bbq-brawl-as-judge.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 20:59 GMT by People
      Locales: New York, Colorado, Texas, UNITED STATES

Los Angeles, CA - February 24, 2026 - BBQ Brawl, the Food Network's high-stakes grilling competition, is heating up in more ways than one this season, thanks to the addition of Real Housewives of Orange County star and accomplished chef, Brooke Williamson, as a judge. Veteran chef and host Bobby Flay is singing Williamson's praises, revealing that her presence is fundamentally shifting the show's dynamic and pushing contestants to reach new heights in barbecue excellence.

Williamson steps into the role previously held by Melissa Harrison, and according to Flay, she's making an immediate and impactful impression. In an exclusive interview, Flay described Williamson as "intense," emphasizing her unwavering focus and no-nonsense approach to evaluating the competitors' creations. "She doesn't play around," Flay stated. "You can tell she's really thinking about what's going on, and it's really changing the whole dynamic of the show."

This isn't simply a case of adding another face to the judging panel. Flay, accustomed to being the primary voice of critique, admits the shift in power is a novel experience. "It's funny," he explained, "You know, I'm usually the one giving the comments on the food, and now she's commenting on the food! That's kind of a new thing for me." This acknowledges a collaborative judging environment previously unseen on BBQ Brawl, suggesting a more rigorous and multifaceted evaluation process.

Beyond the change in dynamic, Williamson's culinary expertise is driving tangible improvements in the contestants' performances. Flay highlights her "accurate observations" about the nuances of each dish, forcing participants to analyze their techniques and refine their approach. This isn't about harsh criticism for the sake of it; it's about constructive feedback designed to elevate the level of competition. Competitors aren't just striving to impress Flay anymore; they're facing a second, highly perceptive judge who demands precision and flavor.

The addition of Williamson appears to be injecting a new level of competitiveness into the arena. Flay specifically lauded her honesty, stating, "She's honest. I love that. You don't want to be on a show where people are just telling you what you want to hear. You want to be challenged. And she challenges everyone." This commitment to truthful assessment, while potentially daunting for contestants, aligns with the core spirit of a competitive cooking show - identifying and rewarding genuine skill and innovation.

Brooke Williamson's background makes her a particularly compelling addition to BBQ Brawl. While widely known for her appearances on Real Housewives of Orange County and various other reality television programs, Williamson is a seasoned chef and restaurateur in her own right. She's a winner of Top Chef Season 14 and Rock the Flock, demonstrating her exceptional skills and competitive drive in the culinary world. Her experience isn't limited to fine dining; Williamson has a deep understanding of flavor profiles, cooking techniques, and the pressures of a professional kitchen, all of which contribute to her insightful judging.

BBQ Brawl consistently draws a large audience eager to witness the artistry and intensity of competitive barbecue. The show's popularity stems from its focus on a distinctly American culinary tradition and the compelling personalities of both the host and the contestants. By injecting a new, assertive voice into the judging process, Food Network is signaling a commitment to evolving the show while remaining true to its core principles. The network hopes Williamson's contribution will attract both existing fans and a new audience intrigued by the fresh dynamic. It's clear that Brooke Williamson isn't just a personality addition; she's a catalyst for change, and the grilling world is taking notice.

Fans can catch BBQ Brawl every Monday at 8 p.m. ET/PT on Food Network, and witness firsthand how Brooke Williamson is reshaping the competitive landscape of barbecue.