Kevin Bludso

The Path

At Bishop College, Kevin Bludso got his formal education before moving into public service in Los Angeles, where he worked as a corrections officer and parole agent for the Department of Corrections. That same name later appears on Bludso's BBQ in Compton, California, where Kevin Bludso served as founder, owner, and pitmaster from 2008–2016. The work spans institutional discipline and live-fire cooking, two trades that both depend on timing, consistency, and accountability.

The Work Today

On The American BBQ Showdown, Kevin Bludso serves as a judge, bringing barbecue expertise into a televised setting while keeping the focus on technique and standards. Since 2020, that role has placed him in direct conversation with working pitmasters and the methods they bring to the fire.

In Their Words “I liked being a big fish in a small pond.” “I grew up here, but spent all my summers in Corsicana, Texas.”

Career - Owner — Bludso's BBQ restaurants, Hollywood, California and Melbourne, Australia - Judge — Netflix's The American Barbecue Showdown (2020–present) - Corrections officer and parole agent — Department of Corrections, Los Angeles, California - Founder, owner, and pitmaster — Bludso's BBQ, Compton, California (2008–2016) Education: Bishop College

Acclaim

Kevin's honors include Steve Harvey Hoodie Award.

FAQ What is Kevin Bludso's current role? As of 2026, Kevin Bludso is Owner/Pitmaster. Where did Kevin Bludso train or study? What recognition has Kevin Bludso received? Steve Harvey Hoodie Award.