Jake Kelley competes for ‘MasterChef’ title tonight

Hemlock native Jake Kelley is one challenge away from becoming the next “MasterChef” champion.

“MasterChef: Global Gauntlet” airs at 8 p.m. tonight on FOX. The episode will be available to stream Thursday on Hulu.

Tonight’s episode concludes the finale, with Kelley competing against Heidi Muston of South Africa and Peter Egede of Nigeria. The finalists are completing a three-course menu inspired by their roots and personal journeys. After the appetizer and entrée rounds, the competition will be decided by the dessert course and the judges’ final deliberations.

Kelley, 24, represents Mexico as part of Team Americas. He advanced to the finale after recreating Gordon Ramsay’s herb-crusted rack of lamb during the semifinals. In the first part of the finale, Kelley received positive feedback for his octopus and shrimp taco appetizer.

Kelley is a 2024 Alma College graduate with a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience and a minor in chemistry. He is a pharmacy technician and previously worked as a line cook at Wood Shop Social in Mount Pleasant. Kelley developed many of his cooking skills through self-study and YouTube videos, applying his interest in science and precision to the kitchen.

Since appearing on the show, Kelley has received requests for private dinners and has pursued additional culinary opportunities in Metro Detroit. He currently works at Vicino, a Mexican restaurant in Detroit.

The winner will receive the “MasterChef” title, trophy and $250,000 prize.