A no-nonsense first challenge, a surprise 13th finalist and a pan set ablaze in the kitchen — Sunday's Food Network Star premiere was full of flare-ups and near meltdowns that kept the competitors guessing at every turn. But while the action was unfolding on-screen, there was no shortage of antics taking place behind the scenes either. Check out these insider photos from the set to see what the cast, mentors and crew were up to between takes, and find out what it takes to make this show possible.

Giada and Bobby took their places in their signature director's chairs to screen the competitors' cold opens and provide feedback as series directors do.

Joy and Erin kept the atmosphere light and fun while prepping their dishes for the theater.

Despite the cramped corners of the iPic kitchen, the camera crew bellied up to the space to cover all angles of the finalists' work.

During a rare break in filming, Bobby and Giada came together to smile for a (different) camera.

Click Here for More Behind-the-Scenes Photos from the Premiere 

• One-on-One with the First Food Network Star Finalist to Go Home
• Top Moments of the Premiere
• Alex Guarnaschelli's First Star Report
• Exclusive Interview with the Comeback Kitchen Winner