Bobby Flay has signed a new exclusive multi-year deal with Food Network.
As part of its new pact with cable channel Warner Bros. Discovery, Flay will take an active role in the development and production of his own series through his Rock Shrimp Productions, and new episodes of Flay’s primetime culinary competition series “Beat Bobby Flay,” “BBQ Brawl” and “Bobby’s Triple Threat” are already in the making.
Although the financial aspects of the deal have not been disclosed, a source close to the negotiations said Variety that the new contract included a “robust” pay increase for Flay and marked the highest percentage increase for any WBD talent during a tumultuous time for the company.
Flay made his first appearance on Food Network when he co-hosted “Grillin’ & Chillin’.” Since then, he has starred in dozens of Food Network programs, including ‘BBQ Brawl’, ‘Beat Bobby Flay’, ‘Brunch @ Bobby’s’, ‘The Flay List’, ‘Iron Chef America’ and ‘Throwdown with Bobby Flay’, as well as numerous specials.
Flay has received five Daytime Emmy Awards for “Boy Meets Grill,” “Grill It! with Bobby Flay” and “Barbecue Addiction.” In 2015, he became the first chef to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
“Bobby Flay’s longstanding relationship with Food Network is immeasurable. He captivates our audiences with his incredible culinary skills, fierce competitive spirit and ability to convey his deep passion for food,” said Betsy Ayala, head of food content at Warner Bros. Discovery. “Bobby generously shares his food philosophy and inspires everyone to enjoy their time in the kitchen. Continuing this creative relationship with such an extraordinary talent is the perfect way to ring in the holidays.”
Flay added, “I’m glad I can continue to call Food Network my home. The food world is constantly evolving and having this platform to connect my life’s passion with the public is a privilege that I never take for granted. Stay tuned for some incredibly exciting new shows.
“Bobby has been instrumental in making Food Network the powerhouse network that it is, and it’s fantastic news that he will continue to entertain his passionate and loyal fans on the network he calls home,” said Kathleen Finch, the outgoing U.S. network chief from Warner Bros. Discovery.
Flay is repped by Jon Rosen of Envisionary.