Mike Duffy quotes show producer Larry Thompson on the "Americanized version of the popular chow challenge," to be hosted by "merry celebrity prankster William Shatner."

Bill Goodykoontz compares William Shatner's host persona to his Big Giant Head role on "3rd Rock," but the old and new shows are "like comparing Ubriaco to Cheez Whiz."

Glimpse a taping of the American installment of this cooking challenge, hosted by William Shatner at his campy best. Find out which "Sopranos" cast member judges.

Alan Sepinwall thinks Shatner's an acceptable host, but the show "completely misses the point of the Japanese version that's become a cult hit here on the Food Network."

Tim Goodman calls the American spin-off of the Japanese cooking demo "an insult to food fans," and says "Shatner is so far over the top, he's left the stratosphere."