Chris Nirschel, a chef from Hoboken, N.J., was often called out by the judges for his immaturity, but there's no doubt that his seven-episode run on Star was a good time.
Star Journals
Each finalist was given a Food Network journal to use for challenge planning and reflecting on the Star experience. Chris's journal reveals snippets of his over-the-top, entertaining personality.
Serious Mode
In a rare quiet moment, Chris scribbled down a game plan for the next challenge.
Finding POV
Chris wrote out a list of potential ideas for his show and point of view, settling upon "On the Line."
Strike a Pose
The finalists were also given digital cameras to document life in the Star house. A fellow finalist captured this shot of Chris mugging for the camera with a scarf on, despite the warm L.A. weather.
Poetic License
Chris tries his hand at a little rhyming poetry to get himself fired up for the next challenge.
On Camera
In Camera Challenges, Chris never lacked energy, but sometimes his frat-boy, class-clown persona irked the judges.
Confidence
"Today was an easygoing day with lots of awesomeness," Chris reflected in his journal. "I love the camera and it loves me."
Bonding
Back at the house, Chris chilled out with new finalist friends Katy and Whitney.
Pep Talk
Chris wrote out some talking points to defend his POV in the Food Network Magazine pizza challenge.
Buds
A fellow finalist snapped this shot of Chris and Vic.
Pastry Dudes
Chris was psyched to work with all of the guys for the dessert duel challenge. He stepped up as the team leader, but didn't impress Robert Irvine.
Tips From Guy
At the Mel's Diner Camera Challenge, Guy told Chris he was like a "bull in a china shop" and tried to give him guidance to mellow out.
Camera Cool
The judges liked Chris' camera presentation in the Kellogg's Challenge when he talked about making chicken nuggets with his sisters.
Keeping It Together
Chris got stuck with the dessert course of the dinner party for Wolfgang Puck — and it ended up sending him home. "My future is not over," he said. "Hopefully, I'll make something of my name."
