‘Top Chef’ Season 21: Kristen Kish replaces host Padma Lakshmi

Kristen Kish, the winner of Season 10 of Bravo's "Top Chef," has been announced as the new host of the popular cooking competition. She will be replacing Padma Lakshmi, who recently departed after the conclusion of the "world all-stars" Season 20.

The head judge, Tom Colicchio, and judge Gail Simmons will both be returning for the upcoming season alongside Kish. Lakshmi revealed her decision to step away from "Top Chef" prior to the Season 20 finale, stating that she needed to make room for her other creative projects, including her Hulu series "Taste the Nation" and her books.

Kish expressed her excitement about her new role, stating that "Top Chef" is where her journey began, and she feels honored to contribute to the show's legacy. Ever since winning Season 10, she has co-hosted Travel Channel's "36 Hours" and other shows.


Ryan Flynn, senior vice president of current production at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming, praised Kish's culinary expertise and her experience on "Top Chef” saying, “Kristen Kish represents everything that makes ‘Top Chef’ incredibly special”.

While Magical Elves co-CEOs Casey Kriley and Jo Sharon noted, “Kristen is a beloved part of the ‘Top Chef’ family, and we’re thrilled to have her join and bring to the competition her unique, fresh and global culinary perspective, as well as her true passion for food.”

FAQs

1. Why did Padma Lakshmi leave Top Chef?
   Padma Lakshmi left Top Chef after 11 seasons to focus on her other creative projects, including her Hulu series "Taste the Nation" and her books.
2. Will Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons be returning as judges?
   Yes, Tom Colicchio and Gail Simmons will both be returning as judges for Season 21 of Top Chef.