DIY Network

Gionni Thompson is an avid do-it-yourselfer and is the first winner of DIY Network's Stud Finder, a contest to find America's best handyman. His winning smile and larger-than-life personality made this high school chemistry teacher the clear winner. Thompson makes his debut as a home improvement host on Finished in 48 - a five-part docudrama-style half-hour that showcases real experiences of trying to complete big projects in just 48 hours. After a surprise visit by DIY's camera crew in front of his chemistry class, the Colorado native made his very first trip to New York City and landed appearances on NBC's Today Show and Fox News Channel's Fox & Friends. Along with other top finalists, Thompson is profiled in DIY's one-hour special Stud Finder, highlighting the head-to-head challenges he faced that earned him the title of the network's first Stud. The ultimate DIYer, Thompson started teaching himself how to do home improvement projects when he bought his first house - a serious fixer-upper - and has continued to gain experience and confidence over the course of restoring several homes and investment properties. He has tackled some very impressive projects, such as installing a 42-inch plasma screen behind a two-way mirror in his bathroom. In addition, he is just as proud of the shoe rack he made for his wife! When he's not fixing up his house, Thompson spends time with his wife and three sons.