Juan Soler, the star known for his amazing barbecues, is stepping into a new arena. People often call him the “king of the grill.” But he’s not relying on his outdoor cooking skills for his latest challenge. He’s aiming for the Top Chef VIP crown, and his strategy is quite surprising.
His real plan involves a lot of hard work. He’s studying intensely. He’s taking private lessons. He’s deeply committed to growing personally. “My secret weapon will be sacrifice, studying, taking private classes,” the Argentine-Mexican actor shared recently. He wants to “develop talents I don’t have yet.”
Soler, who is 59 years old, admits his grilling fame made him popular online. He’s been the go-to host for outdoor celebrity parties. But Top Chef VIP is a very different game. “I thought doing barbecue was enough,” he reflected. “But it’s not. These things go far beyond grilling.”
This season features 20 celebrities from different parts of the entertainment world. The show focuses on high-level cooking. Challenges test creativity and technique. They also check how well contestants present dishes. Plus, how they react under pressure. Soler sees it as a major chance to improve. “Top Chef VIP leans much more toward gourmet dishes,” he said. “More thought-out, balanced, pushed to excellence.”
Before the competition began, all contestants received basic professional kitchen training. Soler explained they learned how to use knives correctly. They practiced cooking techniques. They learned about hot oils. They also handled fish and seafood. Crucially, they learned rules to avoid cross-contamination. “More than an introduction to cooking, it was a survival manual,” he joked.
Juan Soler also spoke about the human side of reality television. He has clear thoughts on ego. “Ego is controlled by insecurities,” he stated firmly. “Someone can reach the final and win, but if they do it from ego, they’ll never have my respect.” For him, it’s about growing as a group. It’s about being strong and showing leadership with kindness.
He stays balanced when talking about rivals and judges. He’s not afraid of facing anyone. He has no specific target. “We all compete on equal terms,” he explained. “I don’t take special care with anyone.” He knows judges look at dishes and execution, not friendliness. “You can be the most charming or the most unpleasant person, but the judges aren’t here to grade us as people.”
The show offers a $200,000 prize. It’s a big draw. But Soler says he’s not thinking about the money. Not yet, anyway. “There’s a very long way to go,” he said honestly. “There’s no way a prize that includes money will distract me. I can’t share what I don’t have.”
What’s clear is that this experience sparks a new passion in him. He’s already practicing Asian cooking. He’s trying out sushi recipes. His first “official diners” will be his daughters and his wife, Paulina. Paulina has already asked him to cook at home. “I want you to come so you can cook for me,” Paulina told him, Soler shared with a smile.
Juan Soler isn’t just another celebrity joining for more fame. He’s clearly ready to learn. He wants to overcome challenges. He wants to surprise everyone. His barbecues will always be famous. But his goal is to show he’s ready for much, much more.
The competition of Top Chef VIP starts this July 29 on Telemundo.