Berlin – A recent episode of the German cooking competition “Grill den Henssler” (Grill the Henssler) took an unexpected turn when guest judge Bruce Darnell publicly rejected a dish, spitting it out on air. The incident occurred during the 100th episode moderated by Laura Wontorra, a milestone celebrated with gifts and refreshments for the team and has quickly become a talking point among viewers.
The drama unfolded after chef Marijke Amado presented “Poffertjes with berry compote and lychee-cinnamon ice cream” as her dessert challenge to host Steffen Henssler. According to reports, the dish failed to impress, leading to a visible reaction from Darnell, who replaced Jana Ina Zarrella as a guest judge for the evening. The incident occurred amidst a generally celebratory atmosphere, with Wontorra marking a century of episodes hosting the popular cooking present since its inception on May 10, 2020.
Darnell’s reaction was blunt. “What is that? Who made this?” he reportedly asked, visibly dismayed. After tasting the dessert, he immediately spat it out, stating, “No, I can’t eat that! No, kids, sorry. That’s just not good.” He struggled to articulate his criticism, ultimately concluding, “It was a disaster.” The moment was diffused, at least partially, when Wontorra offered Darnell and fellow judge Joachim Llambi glasses of Prosecco, whereas Alexander Herrmann opted for Eierlikör (egg liqueur), remarking, “You have to drink something nice to get through this.”
The evening wasn’t without its other highlights. Henssler secured a decisive victory, winning all cooking rounds and two of the three kitchen competitions, marking his tenth consecutive win with a score of 85:58. Laura Larsson, a debutante on the show, nearly caused a kitchen mishap during the appetizer round, while “Zivi Howan,” Henssler’s assistant, achieved a successful main course win against comedian Tony Bauer with Henssler’s guidance.
Darnell’s History and the Show’s Format
Bruce Darnell gained prominence in Germany as a judge on “Germany’s Next Topmodel” two decades ago, and remains a recognizable figure in the entertainment industry. The format of “Grill den Henssler” pits Henssler against celebrity chefs in a series of cooking challenges, judged by a panel of culinary experts and personalities. The show, broadcast on VOX, is known for its competitive spirit and often-heated exchanges.
Wontorra Celebrates Milestone with Gifts
Prior to the cooking challenges, Steffen Henssler surprised Laura Wontorra with gifts to commemorate her 100th episode as host. These included a copy of his cookbook, “Hundert Klassiker” (One Hundred Classics), and a cart laden with “basic necessities” – Prosecco, canned beer, and Eierlikör – setting a festive tone for the evening, as reported by HNA.
Reaction and Aftermath
The incident with Darnell’s reaction has generated considerable discussion online and in German media. While some viewers found the moment amusing, others criticized the judge’s behavior as disrespectful to the chef. The show continued with a lighthearted atmosphere, despite the momentary tension. Alexander Herrmann jokingly attributed the poor dessert to a faulty refrigerator, while Marijke Amado questioned the shape of the Poffertjes.
The next steps for “Grill den Henssler” involve continuing its regular broadcast schedule on VOX, with novel celebrity chefs and guest judges appearing in future episodes. The show’s continued success hinges on maintaining its blend of culinary competition, celebrity appearances, and unpredictable moments, as evidenced by the recent episode’s viral moment.
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