**Bobby Flay and Brooke Williamson Shift Roles in BBQ Brawl Ahead of New Season**
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Bobby Flay has announced an exciting change for the upcoming season of *BBQ Brawl*, revealing that his girlfriend, Brooke Williamson, will transition from her role as a judge to that of a team captain. The culinary competition, which has gained a loyal following on the Food Network, promises a fresh dynamic this season thanks to the couple’s evolving relationship.
Flay, speaking with PEOPLE at the South Beach Wine & Food Festival, explained how the couple’s romantic involvement has influenced their on-screen roles. “Brooke has been a judge since almost the beginning, the second season, and she’s always wanted to be one of the mentors and cook on the show, and there was never sort of an opportunity for that,” he noted. However, with the couple having started dating in March, the dynamics have changed.
As the couple has drawn closer, they’ve laid down some ground rules regarding their participation in the competition. “Our rule between us is that we can’t judge each other, because how can we judge each other?” Flay remarked. Instead, the pair will now compete against one another, with Flay acknowledging Williamson’s competitive spirit. “She’s becoming one of the captains on BBQ Brawl, so I have to actually compete against her. And she, as you might imagine, is very competitive, so she’s tough to beat,” he added.
The previous season of *BBQ Brawl* aired in June, but Flay clarified that those episodes were filmed before he and Williamson began their relationship. This new season, however, will be shaped by the unique tension and camaraderie of their pairing. Flay has previously highlighted Williamson’s readiness for a new challenge on the series.
During an Instagram Q&A, Flay even playfully entertained the idea of Williamson being a competitor coach. Responding to a fan question, he mentioned that Williamson had expressed interest in competing for years, hinting, “Should we give her a chance??” Williamson enthusiastically shared Flay’s post, demonstrating her readiness to take on this new chapter in *BBQ Brawl*.
As the couple looks ahead, they are also preparing to celebrate their one-year anniversary. Flay shared plans for a special trip to Tokyo, where they intend to spend five days exploring the city. “Our one-year anniversary of being together is coming up, so that’s what we’re up to,” said Flay, with Williamson adding that she is “really excited for that trip.”
In terms of travel arrangements, Flay conceded that Williamson is taking charge. “She’s doing them all, because I’m not a Tokyo expert by any means,” he admitted, emphasising her enthusiasm for planning their culinary adventures while in Japan. “So if you have any questions about what we’re doing, you need to call her,” he joked, highlighting Williamson’s organisational skills.
As the new season of *BBQ Brawl* approaches, viewers will undoubtedly be eager to see how the couple navigates their competitive roles on the show. With the added personal stakes and friendship transforming into a professional rivalry, it promises to be an engaging experience for fans of the culinary competition.
With Flay and Williamson at the helm, the upcoming season is set to deliver more than just culinary challenges – it will showcase a unique relationship dynamic, adding a fresh layer to the familiar competitive format. Their journey, both on and off-screen, will capture audience hearts as they combine their culinary passions with personal narratives. As they prepare for their anniversary and the excitement of the new series, fans can look forward to a delicious blend of love and rivalry.