Padma Lakshmi Reflects on 'Top Chef' Post-Exit: Feels 'A Little Odd' But Wishes Success (Exclusive)

Padma Lakshmi Admits It A Little Odd to Watch Top Chef

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Padma Lakshmi is still a big supporter of Top Chef even though she is no longer part of the show. "I watched the first couple of episodes and it was a little odd," said Lakshmi, 53, in an exclusive interview with We at the Gold Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday, May 11. "But everybody I love is on that show. So I’m rooting for them."

Lakshmi expressed her support for Kristen Kish, her replacement as the host, saying, "It's a house I helped build, and I want them to succeed." She believes Kristen will do well and is already doing a great job.

Even though she decided to move on, Lakshmi admitted that it still feels "weird" not being a part of the show. However, she mentioned that she can always stay connected with the cast and crew and doesn't need to be on set to do so.

Lakshmi made the announcement of her departure in June 2023, just before the season 20 finale was aired.

In a heartfelt message shared on Instagram, she expressed, "After much reflection, I have come to the tough decision to step away from Top Chef. It has been an incredible journey serving as host and executive producer for 20 amazing seasons. I take great pride in the success of the show and the impact it has had on both television and the culinary world. Over the span of 17 years, many of the cast and crew have become like a second family to me, and I will truly miss working alongside them."

Lakshmi mentioned that she was excited about exploring "other creative pursuits."

She later explained on Variety's "Awards Circuit" podcast, two months after leaving Top Chef, that there were various reasons for her decision which she didn't have time to elaborate on. She mentioned, "If I'm feeling this way, then I've got to trust my gut." She also emphasized the importance of making space in her life for new opportunities to arise.

Lakshmi shared that there were many factors that led to her decision to step away from hosting the Bravo competition series after 17 years. She mentioned that she spent eight months of the year on location, and when she wasn't filming, she was busy with pre- and post-production for both Top Chef and her Hulu series, Taste the Nation. Juggling the edits of one show while on the set of another became overwhelming and unsustainable for her.

Lakshmi has been focusing on her passion projects since she left. One of these projects is the Gold Gala, which honors influential Asian Pacific leaders who excel in their industry while also making a positive impact on society.

She expressed her admiration for the organization, describing it as a wonderful community that she had not experienced before. Although she had not attended the event personally, she had seen pictures and heard that it was a lot of fun. She enjoyed designing the menu for the evening, although she felt a bit nervous about catering to 250 guests. The menu featured fresh ingredients and South Indian cuisine, with a focus on authenticity.

With reporting by Lanae Brody

Editor's P/S:

Padma Lakshmi's departure from "Top Chef" after 17 seasons has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans have expressed sadness at her absence, while others have welcomed the change. However, Lakshmi's support for her replacement, Kristen Kish, and her continued involvement in the show's success demonstrate her unwavering commitment to the culinary world.

Lakshmi's reasons for stepping away from the show highlight the challenges faced by many working professionals. Juggling multiple projects and demanding schedules can take a toll on both personal and professional well-being. Her decision to prioritize her health and pursue other creative endeavors is a reminder that it's essential to set boundaries and create space for growth.