Host Sean Evans discusses his fiery interview style on ‘Hot Ones’

Sean Evans, the host of “Hot Ones,” recently shared insights into his hit show with ABC News, touching on the series’ 24th season and his hopes for an Emmy nomination. Known for its unique format, “Hot Ones” features Evans eating progressively spicier chicken wings while interviewing celebrities, offering a fresh take on the traditional talk show.

Since its debut in 2015, “Hot Ones” has attracted a wide range of stars, from Idris Elba to Billie Eilish and Jack Black, providing a platform for entertainment giants to showcase their human side. The show airs on the First We Feast YouTube channel, which boasts over 13 million subscribers. A particularly popular episode with Gordon Ramsay has amassed 126 million views.

During the interview, Evans stressed the importance of awards shows recognizing online creators. He expressed his desire for prestigious awards to give credit to platforms like YouTube, reflecting changing consumer behaviors and acknowledging the next generation of showrunners. Evans considers any nod from the award bodies as a validation of the hard work poured into the show.

When asked about the secret to maintaining composure while eating extremely spicy wings, Evans explained that the responsibilities of hosting and creating a rhythm with guests help distract him from the discomfort. After nearly ten years and over 3,000 chicken wings, he’s grown somewhat accustomed to the heat.

Evans admitted that off the clock, he avoids chicken wings and joked about how they seem to follow him everywhere he dines. Despite this, he values the humanizing element the show brings to celebrities. The shared experience of enduring spicy food demystifies the unattainable lifestyle often associated with fame.

Securing A-list guests, according to Evans, owes much to the show’s significant audience. With a large platform, celebrities find “Hot Ones” an appealing venue to promote movies, albums, or books. The spicy challenge levels the playing field, offering a relatable experience that helps demystify the guests.

Evans recalled memorable guests who handled the heat impressively. Halle Berry stood out for her nonchalant attitude towards the challenge, declaring she came for dinner. Such moments occasionally stun Evans, who is usually prepared for the guests’ struggles with the spice.

A key element of “Hot Ones” is the in-depth research behind the questions. Evans emphasized the need to keep guests engaged, asserting that half-hearted interviews wouldn’t fare well given the show’s format. By showing respect for the guests’ time and effort, Evans believes he reciprocates the commitment they show by enduring the wings.

Reflecting on the show’s journey from an online series in 2015 to a potential Emmy nominee, Evans finds it rewarding that their serious effort despite the show’s apparent silliness is being recognized. He is hopeful yet realistic about the nomination, acknowledging the stiff competition but cherishing the honor.

Discussing the recognition of online creators by prestigious awards, Evans believes that award shows need to adapt to audience trends. He sees potential for future generations of hosts and showrunners to emerge from platforms like YouTube and emphasizes the importance of reevaluating current recognition standards.

To conclude the interview, Evans promised to return with wings, noting the lesson learned about the audience’s expectations. Excitement continues for “Hot Ones” as it airs new episodes of its 24th season each Thursday at 11 a.m. Eastern on First We Feast’s YouTube channel.

Source: ABC News