‘Top Chef’ Host Padma Lakshmi to Exit After 17 Years
thewrap.comA post shared by Padma Lakshmi (@padmalakshmi)Bravo issued a statement on Lakshmi’s departure, saying, “Padma Lakshmi leaves behind an incredible legacy on Bravo’s ‘Top Chef.’ Her impact on the Emmy, James Beard and Critics’ Choice Award-winning series is undeniable.
We are grateful to Padma for being a consummate host, judge and executive producer, and for bringing her ingenuity and exceptional palate to each episode where she ate every bite of food on the series for over 17 years and 19 seasons.
She will always be part of the ‘Top Chef’ and the NBCUniversal family and has a seat at the judges’ table anytime.”Though Lakshmi came to be the face of the Bravo competition series, she wasn’t its original host. “Top Chef’s” first season was presented by chef Katie Lee with Lakshmi taking over the role in 2006.
During her time on the series, Lakshmi has been nominated for three Primetime Emmys for Outstanding Reality Host. Becoming one of the most prominent TV food judges in the world has led to Lakshmi expanding her own brand.
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