Banijay Dishes Up Italian Cooking Show ‘Cooking Grandmas,’ Starring Alessandro Borghese, at Mipcom (EXCLUSIVE)

Banijay Entertainment will debut “Cooking Grandmas,” a feel-good cooking competition format from Banijay Italia, its Italian production arm, at content showcase Mipcom in Cannes.

“Cooking Grandmas,” commissioned by Sky Italia’s TV8, is an original new primetime format that sees grandmothers compete in an uplifting culinary contest. While traditional family recipes and regional specialities are at the heart of the competition, contestants are pushed outside their comfort zones through challenges inspired by fine dining, street food and international cuisines. Beyond the kitchen, they live together in a rustic farmhouse where friendships, rivalries and personal stories unfold, revealing the characters behind the cherished family recipes.

The show’s head chef and judge is Alessandro Borghese, one of TV8’s most loved personalities. He’s a restaurateur and celebrity chef.

James Townley, chief content officer, development, Banijay Entertainment, said: “ ‘Cooking Grandmas’ taps into several global trends we know resonate with audiences globally – from culinary and family traditions to authentic, character-led storytelling. The competition, paired with reality elements, creates broad appeal, while the scalable structure makes it highly adaptable across international markets. We think it will be a hit in Cannes for buyers looking for feel-good entertainment.”

Francesco Lauber, chief creative officer, Banijay Italia, said: “In Italy and around the world, grandmothers are the keepers of family traditions, memories and recipes. But they are also strong, funny and competitive women. ‘Cooking Grandmas’ celebrates both sides: the dishes they know and love, and the challenge of stepping outside their comfort zone, from street food to international cuisine. Spending time together brings out their humor and fighting spirit, alongside emotional stories and traditions passed down through generations. It’s not just a competition, but a warm and entertaining celebration of remarkable women.”

Banijay Italia’s portfolio includes flagship brands like ‘Survivor,” “Foodish” and “Bake Off Italia,” alongside streamer titles “Love Is Blind: Italy” and “The 50.”

Other shows on Banijay’s Mipcom slate are “100 Knives,” “Last One Standing,” “Million Dollar Idea” and “Date Knight.”