Why is Padma Lakshmi quitting Top Chef after 17 years as its host? Actress says, 'I feel it's time to...'
Indian-American actress and model Padma Lakshmi has announced her exit from the popular cooking reality competition series Top Chef after 17 long years. The 52-year-old who has hosted the series since its second season issued a statement bidding it farewell.
Why did Padma Lakshmi quit Top Chef after 17 years?
Lakshmi, who hosted Top Chef for 17 years, recently announced her decision to quit the reality series through a statement posted on her Instagram. The author's post from June 2, 2023, reads, "After much searching, I have made the difficult decision to leave Top Chef. After completing its 20th season as host and executive producer, I am extremely proud to be a part of the building. Such a successful show and its The impact is on television and the world of food."
"After 17 years, many of the cast and crew are like family to me and I will miss working with them. I feel it is time to move on and I need to make space for Taste the Nation, my books and other creative pursuits. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for all these years of love and support. Sincerely, Padma," she concluded. Lakshmi expressed the need to focus on her other projects as she chose to leave Top Chef.
The 52-year-old's travel and food docuseries Taste the Nation with Padma Lakshmi are among the reasons for her exit. The series premiered on Hulu on June 18, 2020 and was subsequently renewed for a second season which was released on May 5, 2023. A short holiday edition of Taste the Nation was also released on November 4, 2021. Meanwhile, season twenty will be Top Chef Lakshmi's last season as its host. She has been the host of the series since its second season in 2006, after chef Katie Lee's departure from the show in its first season in 2006.
Lakshmi, who publishes a wide range of cookbooks, has received four Emmy nominations as host of Top Chef. But between her Hulu docuseries and her cookbook, Lakshmi has decided to step away from her role as host of Top Chef. Fans were heartbroken by her exit but thanked her for her contribution to the show and wished her luck. Lakshmi posted a reel featuring images from her time on Top Chef and captioned it, "Don't worry—the champagne stays on Padma [red heart emoji]."
One user commented, "You're one of the best hosts on TV. Really going to miss you on Top Chef, but love the taste of country. You're an icon. [emotional face emoji]." Another said, "What a show you made. Thank you for helping us find the power to cook with our hearts. I'm excited for your new chapter. Love you [red heart emoji]." A third wrote, "You are a legend!! Can't wait to see where Taste of Nation goes and what you have in store!!! xx" A fourth replied, "Wherever your soul takes you, we will follow!"