Barbecue Showdown Season 4: Everything We Know About The Netflix Hit's Return In 2025

The smoke is rising again! Fans of the beloved Netflix reality competition, Barbecue Showdown (formerly *The American Barbecue Showdown*), have reason to celebrate as the series has officially been renewed for a fourth season, promising another fiery competition to crown the next great pitmaster. As of December 2025, while an exact release date remains under wraps, the renewal is confirmed, and the production wheels are turning, with casting calls already underway for new contestants.

This article provides the most current and comprehensive update on everything known about Barbecue Showdown Season 4, including the highly anticipated return of the iconic judges, the likely release window for 2025, and what fans can expect from the format and filming location. The show, which celebrates the rich tradition of American barbecue, continues to be a massive hit for the streaming giant, making a fourth season a necessity for the unscripted content slate.

The Expected Cast and Crew for Season 4

The success of a cooking competition often rests on the shoulders of its hosts and judges, and Barbecue Showdown has found a winning formula with its charismatic panel. While Netflix has not yet issued a formal press release confirming the Season 4 lineup, it is overwhelmingly expected that the fan-favorite trio from the previous two seasons will return to their posts.

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The Returning Host and Judges

• Host: Michelle Buteau — The comedian and actress, known for her sharp wit and infectious energy, is the expected host for Season 4. Buteau took over hosting duties in Season 2 and has since become the face of the competition, expertly guiding the contestants and providing comedic relief.
• Judge: Kevin Bludso — A world-renowned pitmaster and owner of Bludso’s BBQ, Kevin Bludso brings decades of experience in Texas-style barbecue and a no-nonsense judging style. His expertise in low-and-slow cooking is invaluable to the show.
• Judge: Melissa Cookston — Known as the "Winningest Woman in Barbecue," Melissa Cookston is a seven-time World Barbecue Champion. Her deep knowledge of all things pork, especially whole hog barbecue and Memphis-style BBQ, makes her a critical and respected judge.

The chemistry between Buteau, Bludso, and Cookston has been praised for balancing serious culinary critique with genuine warmth and entertainment. Their return is a key element that fans are looking forward to, ensuring the show maintains its blend of high-stakes competition and Southern hospitality.

Predicted Release Date and Production Timeline

Determining the exact premiere date for Barbecue Showdown Season 4 requires looking at the pattern of previous seasons and current production updates.

Season Release History:

• Season 1: September 18, 2020
• Season 2: May 26, 2023
• Season 3: July 4, 2024

The gap between Season 2 and Season 3 was over a year, but the Season 3 release date of July 4th strategically aligned with the American summer and barbecue season. Given that a casting call for the new season was reported in July 2024, the production timeline points toward a mid-to-late 2025 release.

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The Strongest Prediction: Based on the latest news and production cycles, it is highly probable that Barbecue Showdown Season 4 will be released on Netflix in the Summer of 2025, potentially aiming for another holiday weekend like the Fourth of July or a similar prime grilling time.

What to Expect: Format, Location, and Competitors

The core of Barbecue Showdown is its celebration of authentic, regional American barbecue, focusing on the techniques, tradition, and passion of the pitmasters. Season 4 is expected to maintain this successful format, but with potential twists on the challenges.

The Competition Format

Each season typically features eight talented pitmasters from across the country, all competing in a series of challenges that test their mastery over various meats, smokers, and regional styles. Expect to see classic challenges involving whole hog, brisket, ribs, chicken, and unique cuts, along with the ever-present requirement for homemade sauces and sides. The emphasis remains on fire management, smoke flavor, and technical execution.

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Topical Authority Entities: The show delves into the nuances of different barbecue traditions, including Carolina whole hog, Kansas City burnt ends, St. Louis spare ribs, Texas brisket, and Memphis dry rub. Contestants must demonstrate proficiency with different types of smokers, such as offset smokers, drum smokers, and pellet grills, using hardwoods like hickory, oak, and pecan.

The Filming Location

The show has consistently been filmed in the state of Georgia, which has a strong barbecue tradition of its own. Season 1 was filmed in Covington, Georgia, while Season 3 moved to Gay, Georgia. It is highly likely that Season 4 will continue to be filmed in a rural setting within Georgia, providing the necessary space for the massive outdoor kitchens, multiple smokers, and the signature "Trench" challenge, where pitmasters cook over an open fire pit.

Casting for the Next Pitmaster

The search for the next winner is already in progress. Netflix is actively seeking passionate home cooks and professional pitmasters who believe they have the skills to out-smoke the competition. The show is known for its diverse casting, bringing together competitors with different regional styles and backgrounds, from backyard enthusiasts to seasoned competition circuit veterans.

The ultimate prize is not just the title of "Barbecue Showdown Champion" and a cash prize, but the prestige and recognition that comes with being crowned by judges of the caliber of Kevin Bludso and Melissa Cookston.

Why Barbecue Showdown Resonates with Viewers

The enduring popularity of Barbecue Showdown is rooted in its authenticity and the universal love for smoked meat. Unlike many stylized cooking shows, this series focuses on the raw, labor-intensive process of true barbecue. It highlights the long hours, the challenge of maintaining fire consistency, and the deep-seated traditions passed down through generations. The show is a masterclass in fire management, meat preparation, and smoke science.

The renewal for Season 4 demonstrates Netflix's commitment to this niche but fervent fan base. As the wait continues for the official 2025 release date, fans can rewatch the first three seasons to appreciate the skills of previous winners and contestants, and get ready for the return of the smoke, the drama, and the deliciousness that only Barbecue Showdown can deliver.