Kristen Kish on Taking the Helm as 'Top Chef' Host After Padma Lakshmi

Kristen Kish Says It Was Challenging To Take On Padma Lakshmis Top Chef Hosting Role

Kristen Kish Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for TIME

Taking over as host of the long-running Bravo competition show was almost more daunting for Kristen Kish, who knows what it’s like to win Top Chef.

In a new interview with Midwest Living, Kish, 40, shared how it felt to replace Emmy-nominated host Padma Lakshmi, who decided to leave Top Chef in 2023 following season 20.

Competing as a chef can be tough because you never know what challenges you'll face next. Trying to navigate through each new task can be a daily struggle. Hosting comes with its own set of difficulties, especially when you have to step into the shoes of someone like Padma who held the position for a long time and excelled at it. It's a big challenge to live up to the standards set by the famous trio of Tom, Gail, and Padma on the show.

Kish, who won the title of Top Chef in season 10, understands the pressure of replacing a beloved host like Lakshmi. When asked if she had any doubts about taking on Lakshmi's role, Kish admitted to feeling uncertain about her ability to do the job justice. Despite the doubts lingering in her mind, she was determined not to let fear dictate her decision-making. She acknowledged the big shoes she had to fill but was committed to working hard to meet the expectations set before her.

Gail Simmons, 47, shared her thoughts on their new sidekick, Kish, saying that she brings a unique perspective as a former contestant, a role they have never had before.

Kish, known for her appearances on cooking shows and hosting National Geographic’s Restaurants at the End of the World, expressed her excitement about joining the judges' table. After Bravo announced her new role in July 2023, she took to Instagram to express her gratitude and excitement, feeling honored and eager to get started.

Kristen Kish Says It Was Challenging To Take On Padma Lakshmis Top Chef Hosting Role

Padma Lakshmi and Kristen Kish Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for TIME

Kish was surprised to learn that she had gotten the job while traveling from Thailand to New York. She shared, "I land [in Dubai] and turn on my phone, and have tons of text messages from my manager who’s like, ‘You need to call me right now.’ My first reaction was, ‘Oh, my God, what happened? What’s the bad news?’”

According to Kish, the job was completely unexpected and not something she had anticipated, especially while she was in the middle of navigating through security at the Dubai airport. She added, “By the time I got home, the wheels were already in motion for me to go to L.A. to meet with people. It all happened very fast.”

Lakshmi decided to leave Top Chef to focus on her personal life. She congratulated Kish, expressing her pride and excitement for Kish taking over for her on BravoTopChef. Lakshmi mentioned that she will be rooting for Kish and the whole crew in the next season.

In Season 21 of Top Chef, 15 hopeful contestants are competing in Quickfire and Elimination challenges in Wisconsin. The winner will be crowned Top Chef and receive a grand prize of $250,000.

Here’s hoping Kish keeps up with Lakshmi’s iconic “please pack your knives and go” line.

Top Chef premieres on Bravo Wednesday, March 20, at 9 p.m. ET.

Editor's P/S:

Kristen Kish's journey from Top Chef contestant to host is an inspiring testament to her talent and determination. As a former winner, she understands the pressures and challenges faced by the contestants, bringing a unique perspective to the judging panel. Her appointment marks a departure from the show's previous format, adding a fresh dynamic to the longstanding competition. Kish's humility and willingness to step into the shoes of Padma Lakshmi, who left an indelible mark on the show, reflect her confidence and dedication to upholding the legacy of Top Chef.

The article highlights the challenges faced by Kish as she navigates the transition from participant to host. Overcoming self-doubt and embracing the opportunity, she embodies the spirit of resilience and determination that has made her a successful chef and television personality. Her excitement and gratitude for the role are evident, promising an engaging and memorable season of Top Chef.