Padma Lakshmi announces she is leaving Top Chef

[wapiko]

Padma Lakshmi announced via Instagram and Twitter on June 3rd that she is leaving Top Chef after 17 years.

pic.twitter.com/oGm8y49oTH
- Padma Lakshmi (@PadmaLakshmi) June 2, 2023

"After much soul searching, I have made the difficult decision to leave Top Chef.
Having completed a glorious 20th season as host and executive producer, I am extremely

Comments

[muffintiem]

I've always liked her as a host, she genuinely gets on with people, but I can see why she wants to focus on Taste the Nation. It's a really great show and doesn't make nearly enough episodes imo and I love that she introduces the audience to food & culture in the US that they likely weren't aware of until watching. (The Gullah Geechee ep was one of my favorites.)

I don't think Top Chef actually needs a host if she leaves, but I think Melissa King would be a great replacement, if she were up for something like that. I just love Melissa a whole lot and she's been a big part of the Top Chef family since winning so it would be a really natural addition.

[jinny]

Ooh! Yes to Melissa King! I was really happy when she won. I was rooting for her all season!

[hellojeds]

I'd love to see Melissa King too! She's so funny, warm and kind, as well as being super talented.

I really enjoyed the last season of Top Chef with many previous contestants judging. They've been there, done that, and are passing on their feedback with respect and kindness.

[evilfirepixie8]

I spotted Padma's daughter in Taste the Nation and I was surprised how old she is! I imagine that might also be a factor in her leaving, she's growing up so fast.

[wapiko]

Melissa King is SO TYPE for me. I’d love this.

[leviosabitch]

That’s also a good idea!