Thirteen-Year-Old Alexander Weiss Named America's First-Ever MasterChef Junior Winner

“There was some pretty stiff competition, and it was amazing to watch these junior chefs grow each week,” said Ramsay. “Alexander pulled off complex dishes every week that professionals would be proud to call their own, and we are extremely impressed by what he has accomplished.”

“During my journey on MASTERCHEF JUNIOR, I learned so much from the judges, especially to be more confident in the kitchen and to be more determined,” said Alexander. “Of course, I will always remember the moment when I won, but I will also never forget the amazing time I had with the other contestants and judges. Thank you MASTERCHEF JUNIOR!”

In tonight’s exciting season finale episode, Alexander competed in a culinary showdown with Dara Yu, a 12-year-old from Los Angeles, CA. For the final challenge, Alexander created an impressive, restaurant-quality three-course meal: an appetizer of Basil Lemon Shrimp with Heirloom Tomato Crostini; a main course of Pan Seared Veal Chop with Gnocchi and Butter Sauce; and a Cannoli Napoleon with Mascarpone Cream for dessert. After a very close competition, it was Alexander’s harmonious flavors, complex techniques and elegant plating that earned him the MASTERCHEF JUNIOR trophy.

Watch/share this content piece and follow Alexander’s amazing MASTERCHEF JUNIOR journey: http://fox.tv/1fqdSdu

Season to date, MASTERCHEF JUNIOR is averaging 5.1 million total viewers and ranks No. 1 in its time period among Adults 18-49, Adults 18-34, Women 18-49/18-34, Men 18-49/18-34 and Teens. MASTERCHEF JUNIOR has improved FOX’s performance in the time period versus last year by +58% among Adults 18-49. In addition, MASTERCHEF JUNIOR averaged a +50% lift from its Live + Same Day to its Live +7 Adults 18-49 rating – the largest percentage gain of any unscripted series on the Big 4 networks.

MASTERCHEF JUNIOR is produced by Shine America and One Potato Two Potato, and is based on a format created by Franc Roddam and Shine. Shine International handles distribution for the MASTERCHEF format. Elisabeth Murdoch, Eden Gaha, Paul Franklin, Robin Ashbrook, Gordon Ramsay, Adeline Ramage Rooney, Patricia Llewellyn and Ben Adler serve as executive producers. 

“Like” MASTERCHEF JUNIOR on Facebook at facebook.com/MasterChefJuniorFOX. Follow the series on Twitter @MasterChefJrFOX and join the discussion at #masterchefjunior.