Last Meals’ Host Josh Scherer Says He Felt ‘So Scared That I Killed Hilary Duff’ After Feeding Her Crickets (Exclusive)

In a recent episode of his YouTube series “Last Meals,” host Josh Scherer engaged Hilary Duff in an unexpected food challenge that has since sparked conversations about culinary boundaries and celebrity experiences. The “disgusting food game,” which Duff devised with her eldest son, Luca, revolves around the premise of crafting the most repulsive food combinations imaginable and daring each other to consume them.

During the episode, which aired on May 13, Scherer presented Duff with a particularly unsettling concoction, featuring crickets among various other questionable ingredients. Speaking to PEOPLE at the 2026 YouTube Brandcast red carpet following the show, Scherer recounted his initial trepidation when he saw Duff’s shocked reaction to the cricket-filled bite. “I got so scared that I killed Hilary Duff because I gave her crickets,” he revealed, highlighting the playful yet alarming nature of the challenge.

For Duff, the game is straightforward: “You design the grossest bite of food possible… and then feed it to each other,” she explained. The singer, known for her light-hearted spirit, expressed that successful participants must keep the disgusting morsels down, with the penalty for failure being the title of “loser.” The aim is to create a culinary experience that pushes each other to the edge of gagging. This playful banter contributed to an enjoyable segment, with Duff declaring in jest, “You are such an a–hole! There are so many crickets in my mouth,” before asking for a chance to go again.

Scherer opened up about the wonderful dynamic between himself and Duff, sharing that she ranks among his top guests due to her relaxed and easy-going nature. Their shared comfort was evident during filming, with Duff opting to slip off her shoes, prompting Scherer to do the same. This casual atmosphere allowed for exploration of the kitchen, with the pair playfully rummaging through cabinets and sharing light-hearted moments throughout the shoot.

In addition, Scherer reflected on the unique challenges posed by the theme of his show, which is predisposed to discussions surrounding death. He mentioned that some celebrities shy away from the programme, fearing the heavy topic. Nevertheless, he has been pleasantly surprised by the openness exhibited by many guests. “Talking to Tom Hanks about the eschatology of going from Catholicism to Greek Orthodox and his views on [it], like, that’s crazy,” he mused, revealing how the show has become a platform for meaningful conversations.

Despite comparisons to other food-oriented interview formats—particularly the notable “Hot Ones,” hosted by Sean Evans—Scherer maintains that his take on food interviews encompasses an evolving genre akin to late-night talk shows. “It shows a new world of the digital landscape we’re in,” he said, expressing enthusiasm for the direction in which food-themed storytelling is heading.

The inclusion of crickets in Duff’s meal may have momentarily shocked viewers, but for Scherer, it is a familiar element. He commented on the prevalence of crickets and other insect dishes in various cuisines, particularly in certain Latin American cultures. The juxtaposition of approachable cuisine and adventurous ingredients adds a layer of intrigue to his series.

As “Last Meals” continues to feature prominent figures from various sectors, Scherer remains committed to crafting unique and entertaining culinary experiences while touching on deeper themes. Each episode brings a fresh take on food, laughter, and insightful dialogues, making it an appealing watch for food lovers and fans of engaging conversations alike.