THIS is a cooking show! Unlike TOC (where minute after minute is wasted introducing chefs) 24 in 24 spends the vast majority of viewing time showing chefs cooking! Michael Symon is a superior host who shows confidence without being arrogant or showy.
I watched the entirety of season 1 and I was physically tired watching the chefs in their final hours of cooking. First seasons of competition shows are in their infant stages and work out kinks coming into season 2.
Season 2 is already on pace to be an extremely exciting competition. This show is about competitive cooking. There are no flashy lights or fog machines. It can be exhausting to watch because there is so much cooking footage and the viewer is able to see how much effort goes into beautiful dishes. These chefs are WORKING HARD, not playing, showboating or acting.
If you want the flashy lights, fog machines and over the top acting, watch a different show.