Star-a-Day: Chad Rosenthal

Chad Rosenthal

Finalist Chad Rosenthal at the Mentor's Challenge "Pitch Tape" as seen on Food Network Star, Season 9.

Photo by: Eddy Chen ©2013, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Eddy Chen, 2013, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

You  heard it here first:  Food Network Star is kicking off an all-new ninth season on  Sunday, June 2 at 9pm/8c, and returning judge-mentors  Alton BrownBobby Flay and  Giada De Laurentiis will be there at the helm. This year the mentors are tasking 12 hopefuls with weekly Mentor and Star Challenges in the ultimate multi-month interview for the chance to earn their dream television job: their own show on Food Network. While the contestants bring with them a mix of backgrounds — including culinary school, restaurant management, private chef and food blogging — they have but one dream, which is to become the next Food Network Star. From now until next month's premiere, Star Talk will introduce one finalist a day until you,  Star fans, meet them on camera during the show.

A father of two, Chad Rosenthal, 37, lives in Ambler, Pa., and is passionate about all things barbecue and has won several barbecue competitions in the past. Now opening a comfort food eatery near Philadelphia, this self-taught cook grew up hosting a pretend cooking show for his family. He's now eager to turn that childhood hobby into a career.

Click the play button on the video below to watch Chad's casting video.

Casting: Chad Rosenthal
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Visit the  Food Network Star  Headquarters for more exclusive interviews, plus behind-the-scenes images and videos of the finalists and mentors, and tune in to the Season 9 premiere on Sunday, June 2 at 9pm/8c.

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