The Spice Gauntlet of Pop Culture

Hot Ones is an American interview series created by First We Feast in which host Sean Evans conducts in-depth conversations with celebrities while they eat progressively spicier chicken wings.

Premiering in 2015 on YouTube, the show became known for its deceptively simple format: ten wings, ten sauces, and escalating heat levels that challenge even the most media-trained guests. As the Scoville ratings rise, the structured discomfort often leads to candid, humorous, and surprisingly reflective moments.

The series stands out for Evans’s meticulous research and calm interviewing style, which contrasts with the chaos unfolding on the plate.

Over time, Hot Ones has featured a wide range of guests across film, music, sports, and internet culture, becoming one of the most recognizable and culturally influential talk formats on digital platforms. Its blend of comedy, endurance, and sharp journalism has helped redefine what a modern celebrity interview can look like.

The Spice Gauntlet of Pop Culture

Iconic Hot Ones Episodes