The intense culinary competition on Telemundo’s Top Chef VIP 5 has reached its ultimate stage. It has narrowed down a diverse field of twenty international stars to just four finalists. Lupillo Rivera, Ninel Conde, Guty Carrera, and Kelly Ríos have successfully advanced through grueling kitchen challenges, sudden eliminations, and dramatic twists. They now contend for the coveted title and the grand prize of $200,000.
The Road to the Top Chef VIP 5 Finale
The fifth season kicked off months ago with twenty celebrity contestants from various professional backgrounds. These included actors, singers, reality TV personalities, and beauty queens. Throughout the weeks, the kitchen saw high-stress cooking battles, strategic alliances, and unexpected exits. While competitors faced tough eliminations, temporary withdrawals, and a high-stakes return round, the remaining four proved their resilience under pressure.
Ninel Conde, known as the “Bombón Asesino,” and regional Mexican singer Lupillo Rivera, dubbed the “Toro del Corrido,” were the first two stars to secure their spots in the final phase. Shortly after, Guty Carrera and Kelly Ríos punched their tickets to the finale during the intense semifinal round. They narrowly edged out fellow semifinalists Roberto Romano and Mauricio Garza, who fell just short of the finish line.
The Final Challenge and Grand Prize Details
The grand finale of Top Chef VIP 5 aired on Monday, October 19. Telemundo broadcast the event at 7 p.m. Eastern Time and 6 p.m. Central Time. Fans across Latin America also tuned in via Telemundo Internacional. Digital audiences followed along through exclusive behind-the-scenes coverage provided by Telemundo Entertainment on YouTube and social media platforms using the hashtag #TopChefVIP5.
The fate of the remaining four contestants now rests entirely on the palates and final judgment of the show’s expert panel of chefs: Antonio “Toño” de Livier, Tita, and Betty Vázquez. Unlike standard weekly challenges where recovery is possible, the finale demands a flawless, comprehensive execution of culinary skill, leaving no room for improvisation.
Top Chef VIP 5 Contestants and Eliminations
Season 5 featured an eclectic group of public figures who tested their culinary capabilities against strict professional criteria. The progression of the season saw several notable departures before reaching the final four:
- Carlos ‘Caramelo’ Cruz: Dominican content creator and La Casa de los Famosos All-Stars winner.
- Pedro Luis ‘La Divaza’ Figueroa: Venezuelan content creator.
- Carlos Ferro: Mexican actor (withdrawal).
- Sheynnis Palacios: Nicaraguan model and Miss Universe 2023 (withdrawal).
- Athenea Pérez: Spanish model and Miss Universe Spain 2024.
- José Joel: Mexican singer and actor (briefly returned via repechage before final elimination).
- Gaby Borges & Diana Haro: Mexican actresses.
- Nievelis González: Puerto Rican reality star (returned in repechage before final exit).
- Carlos Ponce: Puerto Rican actor and singer.
- Stephanie Salas: Mexican singer, actress, and businesswoman.
- Nailea Norvind: Mexican actress.
- Miguel Arce: Peruvian actor and host.
- Aylín Mujica: Cuban actress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Top Chef VIP 5
Who are the four finalists of Top Chef VIP 5?
The four finalists competing for the grand championship are Lupillo Rivera, Ninel Conde, Guty Carrera, and Kelly Ríos.
What is the grand prize for the winner of Top Chef VIP 5?
The ultimate winner of the fifth season takes home a cash prize of $200,000, alongside the prestigious cooking title.
When did the Top Chef VIP 5 finale air?
The grand finale aired on Monday, October 19, at 7:00 p.m. ET / 6:00 p.m. CT on Telemundo and Telemundo Internacional.
Who are the judges for this season of Top Chef VIP?
The culinary creations of the finalists are evaluated by celebrity chefs Antonio “Toño” de Livier, Tita, and Betty Vázquez.
How many contestants started the fifth season?
Season 5 began with a diverse group of 20 celebrity contestants from different countries, including actors, musicians, and models.
