Dusit International is making its mark in cinema as a key sponsor of The Maverick Academy, a high-energy reality cooking competition that premiered on Netflix on November 8.
Hosted by celebrity chef Alvin Leung, the show blends culinary mastery with entrepreneurial flair, challenging eight chefs from across South-east Asia – including one chef from Dusit Thani College (DTC) – to compete for the opportunity to join Leung as his apprentice and business partner.
Adrian Rudin, managing director of Dusit’s reimagined flagship hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok, also stars as a judge in one of the episodes.
John Lohr, executive director of external affairs at DTC, emphasised the show’s dynamic approach: “What I love most about The Maverick Academy is its energy and fun – it breaks away from the serious, elite image often tied to hospitality.”
He added that the series reinforces Thailand’s global culinary reputation while presenting Bangkok as a hub for hospitality education.
“Hospitality, at its core, should be about discovering passions and exploring the world, not just adhering to rigid, high-level ideals. That’s exactly what this show captures, and it’s why I wanted to be involved. It positions our school as a place where students can turn their passion into a profession while immersing themselves in the vibrant, modern environment of Bangkok – a city that defies outdated perceptions and offers a wealth of opportunities.”
The series highlights Dusit’s contributions to hospitality education, with key scenes filmed at DTC and sister facility The Food School.
Contestants also stayed at ASAI Bangkok Chinatown, a Dusit lifestyle property, while additional challenges featured Baan Dusit Thani, a culinary destination showcasing Thai gastronomy.
The show was also sponsored by the Tourism Authority of Thailand and several other prominent Thai corporations.
With its unique focus on culinary arts and entrepreneurship, The Maverick Academy not only entertains but also showcases Dusit International’s vision for the future of hospitality.
“It’s exciting to see DTC featured as, quite possibly, the first hospitality school ever on Netflix,” he remarked.
