WATCH: Comeback Kitchen Finalists' Early Days of Stardom

In just a few short weeks, eager Comeback Kitchen finalists will enter the hallowed arena that is Food Star Kitchen — again. These seven hopefuls have competed on Food Network Star before but were eliminated before they reached full Star power. Now, though, with one season behind them and plenty of been-there-done-that learnings in their back pockets, these returning rivals are ready to demonstrate their growth and show off their readiness for a second chance at Stardom.
Before the finalists meet mentors Tyler Florence and Valerie Bertinelli and ultimately begin the process of proving their culinary chops and camera charm, look back on their early days on Food Network Star. Watch as all seven enjoyed high points in their first attempts at Stardom, and then see what challenges befell them and led to their eventual eliminations.
Tune in to the premiere of Comeback Kitchen on Sunday, May 8 at 8|7c.