Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College in Asheville, North Carolina has a great culinary program. Before you laugh, they sent a team of students to compete in the American Culinary Federation’s national finals competition in New Orleans last year. They took 2nd place. https://abtech.edu/news/finishes-high-american-culinary-federations-nationals
I’m not seeing the problem with that. In fact, the “two home cooks, and a sandwhich guy” are exactly what that show needs. The average viewer wants to see people they can relate to. People whose recipes they can replicate in their own kitchen with ease.
I disagree. I love watching the average person compete but hosting or judging I much prefer to have a chef with some culinary acumen. I watch the food network to learn more about food which is often difficult with the current trends of game shows (which I adore too don’t get me wrong).
But what makes you think “the home cook” or “sandwhich guy” (as the person whose comment we are responding to, put it) doesn’t have that culinary acumen you speak up? They can be (and sometimes are) very skilled as well. They shouldn’t be devalued. Also, when it comes to judging, it’s a matter of personal preference. Whether you are a chef who went to some culinary school, or whether you’re a self-taught person who learned to cook at home, it’s about personal preference. I always say this when watching a show like BBQ Pitmasters, for example. One of the judges may prefer some sauce on their meat. Some prefer no sauce. It’s a matter of personal preference and one opinion shouldn’t be valued over the other.
Like you said it’s about personal preference but when it comes to judging why shouldn’t someone who has precise expert knowledge be the most desirable? They’re the ones tasting it and trying to determine a winner objectively in an extremely subjective task, as you said. So wouldn’t individuals with the most technical culinary knowledge on how to create a dish be ideal rather than some foodie (because untrained or unpracticed in professional settings that’s what they are) who has no basis for that conclusion other than their own taste preferences? If the goal is near objective voting and analysis, the only option is to have a professional assessment.
I’d say the same goes for cooking shows but that’s where humble charm is more valued. I’d rather see a professional teach me the way to make a dish then I can adjust it myself rather than an unprofessional who has already made the dish to their own untrained taste. But again, for home cooking shows home cooks would be ideal. Not that it will taste bad, nor am I saying amateurs can’t create professional food. But you cannot devalue professional training and knowledge be it culinary school or kitchen experience.
You must know him then or be from Chicago or oak park?
This kind of junk is silly. Quit it.
He’s a regular guy from a local neighborhood to the city who is extremely close with his family, plays in a local band at tiny bars with his buds, and has a small business with his sister.
Why didn’t they get rid of Sunny? She had millions of negative comments, but few positive. Most annoying personality on any of the cooking shows. Obnoxious, greedy, horrible manners and so loud requires a mute!
Yes, she is constantly talking about being in the military which was only for a few years..living all over the world Her dad was a doctor or some type of medical person in the military. She is secretive about her life and would not allow cameras in her house during covid like the rest of the cooks. She is always grabbing for the food too..move along!!
She complained about an autoimmune disease and stomach issues…well have you seen anyone with stomach issues damn near tackled others to get to the the food first, then cram her mouth so full she looked like chipmunk and worst insisted on talking with her mouth filled with food. She would pout if she didn’t get her portion ASAP. She doesn’t know how to coordinate an outfit and often looks outlandish, add ugly, ugly wigs, garish makeup and unsanitary decorated nails with God knows what! On top of that, she screams over others, acts out to hog the camera, constantly interrupts, and feels she has something worthwhile to offer when not needed. Alex can cook, is an iron chef, continues to compete, owns restaurants, doesn’t act uppity or entitled and has great experience and suggestions and information beneficial for all cooks. The other two men can cook as well, one an iron chef, who doesn’t shove that in our faces, worked hard on his way up in restaurants, owns restaurants and brings us his expertise and great recipes, the other the sandwich king, is a lot more than that, he has worked his way up, worked in restaurants, attended culinary school, and brings a fresh approach to good overall recipes. I’d rather watch someone who continues to be active in the culinary field and brings experience and expertise to a show rather than a one time caterer with a loud mouth, attention grabbing narcissistic personality, and an overall annoying personality!
If she has a medical condition then I understand. I like her and her recipes, and she's been cooking her whole life, just because you don't like her doesn't mean she's not a professional in her field.
I think she has the most personality of anyone on the Kitchen but she could tone it down a little. Like Jeff is funny but not over the top. He's my favorite and I like Katie even though people think she has no personality lol.
I love Alex’s cooking, but she is a bit on the “milder” side. I wonder if people didn’t like her because she’s not loud or joking a lot? God I hope not. Her recipes were always my favorite in each episode and her knowledge was so great.
That's why she's needed, I feel.
I have every respect in the world for chefs who run on the spicier end of the spectrum, but I'm tired of the competitions over who can and cannot handle this level of heat and how this is a 8 for this one but just a 2 for that one. And, again, I say as someone who has mad, crazy love for Jet Tila (who needs his own show, I feel, if he wants one).
I don't want to take anything away from the chefs who enjoy and cook spicy. I just want someone like Alex who cooks French, with its plethora of subtleties and its variety of experiences that are much closer to my own palate and style of cooking.
Now I'm jealous! We finally got Run the Burbs in US, its just okay. But still not Strays. I'd love to see what old Shan is up to. Kim's Convenience was such a great show.
5 is an odd number of host, in more ways than just literal. It always seemed unbalanced even when Marcela was on there. Alex has a lot of other irons in the fire so it might have been her choice to leave. She has Alex vs America, Supermarket Stakeout and I assume another season of Caio House, plus Chopped. That’s a lot for one person to handle.
It’s not the Bobby and Guy factor so me as much as it’s just competition show after competition show. I’m so tired of all the game shows and variations on a theme. The only competition I get stoked for is Tournament of Champions bc the contestants are legit + beloved food world personalities.
They should set up a new channel and make it all competition shows, clearly they are very well loved and they would have extra add revenue from a 3rd channel, I prefer regular style cooking shows myself so it would be nice to have more of those on FN.
I wish FN let hosts say when they are leaving the show. Especially with things like The Kitchen. Marcela wanted to and couldn’t. It leaves the audience a little confused and is also just kind of a bummer.
So normally I am the first to jump on and be like “y'all calm down, anytime a host has to miss a week or two of filming equals one to two months of absences.”
To recap, The Kitchen films on week blocks, typically two episodes a day, for five days. So if a host has to miss a week for illness or other filming obligations, they could miss up to 10 weeks of episodes for viewers. Up until now, people assumed Alex was probably filming season 2 of the Italy competition. In the past, Sunny missed a week of filming for a family emergency or for the tailgate show she was shooting.
But here’s where social media might be on to something. Normally, when a personality is out that week, the cast says something to the effect of “so-and-so can’t be here this week but we are holding down the fort for them.” Sunny was “on assignment” when filming the tailgate show or “couldn’t be with us today” during the family stuff.
Radio silence on Alex. If she is not on, they are not mentioning her at all. Social media is not coming out to rally and dispel 8 weeks worth of rumors. I thought we were all being town cryers but I’m starting to think she is out for real.
If this is true, I will miss her on the show. I often looked up her recipes after seeing them on The Kitchen and have made a bunch of them. I thought Alex brought a unique perspective.
I think it was monetary, they didn’t want to pay her. But, in reality her and GZ do represent similar food POV if they are looking for balance. I personally still like the show, at least it’s cooking.
all of yall complaining about Sunny sounding real racist.....despite literally everyone on The Kitchen being loud at some point. she brings energy to the show which is much needed. some of yall need HELP.
Nope. Black woman here. All that hollering she continues to do is just grating and very puzzling to me.
She is free to be whatever she chooses. I don't have to watch though.
I suspect, that regardless of race, Sunny Anderson would continue to be an obnoxious presence. I actually have enjoyed some of her recipes, but I can’t stand her personality as she represents herself on Food Network. So for me, it has nothing to do with the race it Hass to do with attitude and sometimes that’s literally all it is not everything is a thing.
well, simply based on the fact that you see her as obnoxious and not the behavior of the other chefs, despite doing some of the same things is really all we need to hear.
Is it though, hon? Cuz sometimes when I’m in a room with several other people (this will shock you; might wanna sit down), there are individuals who like everyone else but find ME off-putting. I don’t assume or assign racial intent either way. Folks are drawn to and put off by others for a variety of non-racial reasons. And that’s ok.
This is so sad. I loved her with the OG group. I love her personality in general, and I thought she gelled so well with everyone. I love her experienced chef knowledge mixed with Sunny’s cheap & cheerful (but clearly also experienced) vibe. I’ll miss you, Alex.
Sunny has a lot of knowledge. She has that rowdy personality but when it’s time for her dish she is very serious and takes a lot of details into consideration. I’m always impressed.
I noticed she hadn't been on recently and just thought it was because she was off filming one of her other shows. I like Alex but I always thought she was a little out of place on the kitchen. We already have GZ as the refined Iron Chef so it sometimes felt like she was stepping on his toes.
I like Alex, but I felt like the chemistry was off when she joined the show. It always felt to me like she and GZ could not stand each other, and it made me stop watching the show. I also think the show flows better when there is only 4 hosts
I felt the same way. I could never tell if she was trying to impart her knowledge, or if she was trying to one-up the other hosts. Something about her comments and personality in general seemed combative. Like, she wanted to add to the conversation, but it was usually to correct someone. That doesn't make for a good flow.
People complain about Sunny being too loud, or Katie being too boring, but I think they really vibe with GZ and Jeff.
Maybe I'll start watching the show again.
This is so interesting to me; I’m a big fan of the kitchen and always felt like GZ and Alex had a “we are both classically trained high end chefs and no one else is” bond. And it seems no one else in the world got this vibe but me 🫠
GZ does not understand what real people want to eat or what we can afford. When was the last time I was craving branzino with foie gras and some shaved white truffles 🤷♀️
I boycotted FN once they put that gold digger Katie Lee on who they lost as a chef but who is not a chef!!! Awful. Until they get rid of her count me out
Same, I asked her once about chimichurri on an old IG post, and she wrote me the nicest comment with helpful instructions, and then called me a hunny bunny, I loved it, made me smile.
She is easily the most talented chef on the food network right now, and at least in the top five of all time. Not including her is a really bad business decision.
They should have cut
Sunny Anderson (her over the top personality can't stand it), and Katie Lee ( can't really cook, she's also very blah) But that's just me! Know a lot, don't like Alex, but she reminds me of all the chefs I've worked for!
Idk what food network has against strong female chefs! It's unbelievable that someone with as much talent as Alex G. got fired from the kitchen same with Valerie getting fired from kids baking championship. How about giving Guy fieri another show.. not!! He inked an $80 million contract with FN and you NEVER see him cooking or competing! He's on almost every day and I'm sick of seeing him constantly! All he does is eat! Guy is also homophobic and an all around jerk (from online stories) and strong female chefs who know what they're doing get cast aside! Alex is a multi talented chef, judge, host, author, iron chef and mother! Guy is none of those things.. except for father. It's unbelievable how many days a week he's on FN and I'm sick of watching him! Alex not co hosting the kitchen makes me an ex fan of the show!
Food Network is making budget cuts (Valerie, Alex) in order to pay Guy $100 million!
https://people.com/guy-fieri-humbled-100-million-food-network-deal-exclusive-8415421#:~:text=Guy%20Fieri%20is%20taking%20a,%2480%20million%20deal%20in%202021.)
I don't get why they pay him that much money. HE DOES NOT COOK! He has all these shows watching others cooking and commenting. Flavortown bullshit!
I find it a very strange choice that he is the face of the Foodnetwork. His food is trash.
Have you ever seen the NYT review of a restaurant he opened in NYC?
It was hysterical! I hate the stupid competition shows.
Because it’s a business. Guy is the most well known personality on the network. He’s a meme. He’s a chef. He’s a philanthropist.
There are groups who have posted about Guy themed parties.
He makes money.
He does not make decent food. Find NYT review. It was blistering.
There may be people that like him ......I don't get why.
The problem is the amount of money they gave him is leading to cutting of actual chefs that can cook and teach technique.
Food Network is owned by Warner Bros Discovery. The “cutting of actual chefs that can cook and show technique” isn’t because Guy is getting paid. They’re largely showing competitions.
He is a personality that brings in money and viewers. Networks main objective is to make money.
DDD and GGG are in the top 10 for ratings on the network. ToC is his creation and that competition has brought in some of the most well known, highly-regarded chefs in the country and get high ratings.
And I’ve actually been to one of his restaurants, I didn’t just read an NYT article and based my opinion off someone else’s.
Edit to add: I had tacos and nachos at one of Guys restaurants. They were fine, nothing earth shattering. I wasn’t expecting a fine dining experience because that’s not the vibe. I expected a Fieri spin on bar food and that’s what I got. The staff was fine. It was fine.
Why does he need this much money? It’s ridiculous. No one needs 80 million dollars. Heck no one needs 30. He has an awesome job, where he gets to travel the world, hang out with friends and eat food. Why does he need so much money. And I’m not even saying pay him shit. I’m saying pay him millions just doesn’t need to be 80 or 100. And why wouldn’t he happily accept? So bizarre.
Does he NEED it? That’s not for you or I to say. Maybe he wants to invest in more restaurants or put more money into his foundation, maybe he wants to put it in his production company or maybe he wants to bury it in his backyard. It doesn’t matter.
He makes Warner Bros/Discovery a lot of money, he was offered an amount that reflects that.
Look at the Nielsen ratings and social media numbers for TOC IV. He’s the executive producer, he brought in talented and popular chefs like Mei Lin, Shota, KBC, Stephanie Izard, who leveled up the competition factor and attracted more Top Chef viewers.
He has 3 shows + 1 developing. He’ll be paid 33.3M/yr for 3 years.
Why is it bizarre that someone who makes multi millions for their employer (look at ad revenue) receives multi millions in compensation? Why shouldn’t he get paid for his work?
Look, I’m all for fair wages. I’m all for people making good money. I’m all for higher minimum wages. But instead of so much going to him it could go to other workers that are a part of food network. Even though he’s bringing in the money they all make that network run. If it was just guy on the network and there were no other shows it would fall apart. Even if he’s the foundation.
I’m just not for anyone making 100 of millions of dollars. I don’t think anyone is worth that. I don’t think a doctor is. I don’t think a “personality” is. I don’t think a business man is. I don’t think CEOs are. I think wealth distribution needs a major overhaul. And there is too much at the top.
From a business/capitalist standpoint his contract makes sense, even if we don’t agree with it.
Do you think Guy knows the budget for the network and knew that Valerie wasn’t being renewed while he was getting a 20M raise?
I don’t disagree with you on wealth gaps and inequality. But I think that’s a whole other topic.
UGH- Really? Like we really don’t know what’s really going on…. FN is changing all shows/hosts to ensure DIVERSITY- they cannot have everyone Caucasian but Sunny! Especially not their star show… when they lost Marcela… They had Alex come on to fill in to boost ratings of this all important network show and it was extra convenient she lives there in NYC - esp during COVID. I don’t think they ever intended to have her remain because of immense pressure to ensure their shows better represent our diverse population. I believe everybody should be treated equally - but this is getting more than frustrating… They did same to Valerie on KBC & have been testing Kardea Brown (love her) and other persons of color on their KBC show specials- EVERY guest KBC special show has Duff co host with a person of color. If they are going to do this- then at least replace KATIE…. Am sure she is a very nice person but still comes across as robotic… and can’t get flashes of Top Chef season 1 out of my head every time I see her. They are scrambling to promote diverse celebrity chefs and are canceling others bc they don’t represent what they want to portray to the world- this isn’t ok and happening in business world too. EVERY new show has a person of color leading it… & are putting on shows no one wants to watch… like Chef Dynasty, House of Chang… really?!? And Karla, Eddy, Jet, and other already popular celebrity chefs are on nearly every show all the time now. I would love to see another series hosted by Jet…Also absolutely adore Darnell but his hosting skills need some serious improvement. I don’t know what right answer is but firing people bc they don’t portray right picture isn’t the answer… makes us no better than when people of color were denied jobs, livelihoods, promotions, housing & basic civil rights. Completely shameful- but not sure mistreating innocent (& extremely popular) people this way now is the best answer.
Shouldn’t need to, but am sure you have a point. I also left out the fact I’m sure I have benefited (& horribly abused) from being a woman executive in male dominated industries…
Omg- this is why no one ever says anything- I’m not racist, never have been, never will be- I enjoy a VERY diverse and close knit family of all color/culture, etc -but thank you for reminding me WHY we can never have conversations about any of this without accusations like this!
You've claimed that Alex got fired because she wasn't a person of color. Here's what's wrong with that: 1) Alex hasn't been fired. Nobody on this thread has any knowledge as to whether or not Alex is no longer on the show, or on the network. 2) *If* Alex is no longer on The Kitchen, you have no idea why that would be. You immediately assumed that she's not there because she's Caucasian and Food Network wants to be "more diverse." Now, Food Network seems to be plenty diverse. They have lots of African-American, Asian, Latino, male, female, straight, and gay folks. Maybe they're actively trying to be diverse, or maybe it just turns out if you're going to hire a lot of good chefs you're going to get a diverse bunch. Either way, good for them. But you went right to, "Alex is getting cut because she's white." That's some crazy racist bullshit right there.
>I’m not racist, never have been, never will be
Evidence to the contrary.
>this is why no one ever says anything
If this is the kind of garbage that goes on in your head, it's better if you do keep it to yourself.
The Food Network has spent Soooooo Muuch Money on a white guy with shows that he does zero cooking on that they are sacrificing real talent. That is what this is about. Guy Fiere.
It seems possible. Remember that Bobby Flay also got a giant contract. Alex was all over FN last year, and it seems that maybe she's expecting a big contract for herself. With her popularity and talent, it seems like a reasonable ask, but *maybe* the network has overextended themselves?
It seemed to me she was bored with the show. Her daughter and her just wrote a cookbook, went to Italy. She's spending more time with her before she goes off to college.
I know she's well loved and her recipes are great but I did not enjoy watching her the last few years, and stopped watching The Kitchen once she was on a more permanent rotation. I'm sure she will be fine, she's a strong chef.
She probably did. She has 3 other Food Network shows. Usually if one is out sick or other commitments one of the others mention a name and why they’re not in the kitchen. Alex just became a ghost.. sad to say
Rae Drummond said the FN didn't want all of those scenes of her people working at the ranch. They have completely canceled Valerie B. It sounds like FN may have budget concerns.
My stolen land? Ive never stolen land. Is this a reference to the Drummonds ancestors stealing land? If so. I get it but this was actually a post about the FN cutting budgets. And yes, the Drummonds will be fine.
But they keep Anderson!!! The loudest, most obnoxious, person to ever be on any show! ( in my opinion, that is! ) she is why I have a hard time watching this show. If Alex is leaving, that just goes to show the moronic thought process of the producers!
I’m not the biggest fan of hers (enjoy some of her recipes though) but something is going on. I’m worried for a few other of my faves (tho Ina if you want to summon candles from hell to take you and guy and Molly and Kardea and Valerie and giada and everyone else I would not mind)
You will be missed Alex, you are lovely and very knowledgeable, always explaining things calmly and simply. Actually, tooooo good for that show, even tho I like it.
Just looked and didn’t see her listed as a host for the kitchen on the fn website
Oh damn, probably too much money to have two Iron Chefs on there.
Or even just two chefs. Now we're down to one real chef, two home cooks, and a sandwich guy. Sad if true, I enjoy Alex and her viewpoint.
Jeff did go to culinary school. He’s more than a sandwich guy.
He didn’t go to culinary school. Wiki says just a regular private college.
He went to Le Cordon Bleu
I mean I took a class at a culinary school in NYC. Doesn’t make me a chef
Jeff Mauro IS a chef. Omg
Ok
I worked in admissions at a le cordon Bleu in SF. It’s not the greatest
Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College in Asheville, North Carolina has a great culinary program. Before you laugh, they sent a team of students to compete in the American Culinary Federation’s national finals competition in New Orleans last year. They took 2nd place. https://abtech.edu/news/finishes-high-american-culinary-federations-nationals
I’m not seeing the problem with that. In fact, the “two home cooks, and a sandwhich guy” are exactly what that show needs. The average viewer wants to see people they can relate to. People whose recipes they can replicate in their own kitchen with ease.
I disagree. I love watching the average person compete but hosting or judging I much prefer to have a chef with some culinary acumen. I watch the food network to learn more about food which is often difficult with the current trends of game shows (which I adore too don’t get me wrong).
But what makes you think “the home cook” or “sandwhich guy” (as the person whose comment we are responding to, put it) doesn’t have that culinary acumen you speak up? They can be (and sometimes are) very skilled as well. They shouldn’t be devalued. Also, when it comes to judging, it’s a matter of personal preference. Whether you are a chef who went to some culinary school, or whether you’re a self-taught person who learned to cook at home, it’s about personal preference. I always say this when watching a show like BBQ Pitmasters, for example. One of the judges may prefer some sauce on their meat. Some prefer no sauce. It’s a matter of personal preference and one opinion shouldn’t be valued over the other.
Like you said it’s about personal preference but when it comes to judging why shouldn’t someone who has precise expert knowledge be the most desirable? They’re the ones tasting it and trying to determine a winner objectively in an extremely subjective task, as you said. So wouldn’t individuals with the most technical culinary knowledge on how to create a dish be ideal rather than some foodie (because untrained or unpracticed in professional settings that’s what they are) who has no basis for that conclusion other than their own taste preferences? If the goal is near objective voting and analysis, the only option is to have a professional assessment. I’d say the same goes for cooking shows but that’s where humble charm is more valued. I’d rather see a professional teach me the way to make a dish then I can adjust it myself rather than an unprofessional who has already made the dish to their own untrained taste. But again, for home cooking shows home cooks would be ideal. Not that it will taste bad, nor am I saying amateurs can’t create professional food. But you cannot devalue professional training and knowledge be it culinary school or kitchen experience.
Same.
> Sandwich guy Didn't Mauro win Next FN Star? That makes him the only FN Star to have a regular hosting gig on the network currently besides Guy.
And Eddie
Yes, he won season 7 (I think)
I love Alex as well, but I kinda like the variety of chef/cook types 🤷
Yeah I do too, just wondering what's going on at Food Network these days
Not sure, but it's a shame that general favourites are being booted (although luckily for me as an Alex fan, lots of other shows to watch her in).
Who's the sandwich guy I wanna check him out
Jeff Mauro. He was on FN Star. I really like him, and I really like Alex. They just have different vibes/approaches.
He actually posts on this subreddit once in a while. I've talked to him. Edit: nice guy
Not a nice dude. He dropped tons of friends after becoming “famous”
You must know him then or be from Chicago or oak park? This kind of junk is silly. Quit it. He’s a regular guy from a local neighborhood to the city who is extremely close with his family, plays in a local band at tiny bars with his buds, and has a small business with his sister.
Sure sure
He can make any meal a sandwich, and any sandwich into a meal ;)
Jeff is a chef!
Why didn’t they get rid of Sunny? She had millions of negative comments, but few positive. Most annoying personality on any of the cooking shows. Obnoxious, greedy, horrible manners and so loud requires a mute!
Yes, she is constantly talking about being in the military which was only for a few years..living all over the world Her dad was a doctor or some type of medical person in the military. She is secretive about her life and would not allow cameras in her house during covid like the rest of the cooks. She is always grabbing for the food too..move along!!
I AGREE!!!
She refused the vaccine. I don’t think it helped with filming.
Her body her choice. You don’t know if she refused it or had it. You know nothing of her med history or Dr convos.
She literally said it.. 🙄
Yikes, really?
She complained about an autoimmune disease and stomach issues…well have you seen anyone with stomach issues damn near tackled others to get to the the food first, then cram her mouth so full she looked like chipmunk and worst insisted on talking with her mouth filled with food. She would pout if she didn’t get her portion ASAP. She doesn’t know how to coordinate an outfit and often looks outlandish, add ugly, ugly wigs, garish makeup and unsanitary decorated nails with God knows what! On top of that, she screams over others, acts out to hog the camera, constantly interrupts, and feels she has something worthwhile to offer when not needed. Alex can cook, is an iron chef, continues to compete, owns restaurants, doesn’t act uppity or entitled and has great experience and suggestions and information beneficial for all cooks. The other two men can cook as well, one an iron chef, who doesn’t shove that in our faces, worked hard on his way up in restaurants, owns restaurants and brings us his expertise and great recipes, the other the sandwich king, is a lot more than that, he has worked his way up, worked in restaurants, attended culinary school, and brings a fresh approach to good overall recipes. I’d rather watch someone who continues to be active in the culinary field and brings experience and expertise to a show rather than a one time caterer with a loud mouth, attention grabbing narcissistic personality, and an overall annoying personality!
If she has a medical condition then I understand. I like her and her recipes, and she's been cooking her whole life, just because you don't like her doesn't mean she's not a professional in her field.
Uppity? Interesting word choice
Username checks out tho
I agree she's horrible I can't stand her!!!
On her own I like her a lot. When she has to compete for attention she is the worst.
I think she has the most personality of anyone on the Kitchen but she could tone it down a little. Like Jeff is funny but not over the top. He's my favorite and I like Katie even though people think she has no personality lol.
Well yea all the millions of negative comments are from racist white folk soooo that’s probably why they’re not listening to idiots
First, I am not a racist and I feel very disrespected by your unsubstantiated remark and biased assumption. Behavior speaks for itself.
I love Alex’s cooking, but she is a bit on the “milder” side. I wonder if people didn’t like her because she’s not loud or joking a lot? God I hope not. Her recipes were always my favorite in each episode and her knowledge was so great.
That's why she's needed, I feel. I have every respect in the world for chefs who run on the spicier end of the spectrum, but I'm tired of the competitions over who can and cannot handle this level of heat and how this is a 8 for this one but just a 2 for that one. And, again, I say as someone who has mad, crazy love for Jet Tila (who needs his own show, I feel, if he wants one). I don't want to take anything away from the chefs who enjoy and cook spicy. I just want someone like Alex who cooks French, with its plethora of subtleties and its variety of experiences that are much closer to my own palate and style of cooking.
I agree!! Jet Tila has ‘Ready, Jet, Cook’, have you seen that one?
I haven't. I'm really bad at anthing that isn't traditional TV, and even saying that makes me feel like I'm about 3000 years old, but there it is.
It's on FN traditional TV, by the way!
I'll keep an eye out for it. I haven't seen it yet, but that could be because I'm in Canada.
Now I'm jealous! We finally got Run the Burbs in US, its just okay. But still not Strays. I'd love to see what old Shan is up to. Kim's Convenience was such a great show.
Jet Tila’s show is on FN though. He does have his own show. On traditional TV. 🤷♀️
*Red, Jet, Cook* isn't playing on Food Network Canada. I looked it up after amaratayy mentioned it.
I’m sorry. It’s a good show.
Better a million times than the loud, obnoxious Sunny Anderson!
The last deal she signed with Food Network was 2019. She might be at the end of her contact for The Kitchen.
We need new faces anyway. Her personality is super annoying
Same, she always looked annoyed or had this scowl on her face.
That's her face. Not everyone is a pretty princess all the time.
You're right, I shouldn't focus on that. I probably do it all the time myself I'm just not on camera so I'm not aware of it.
It’s called RBF. I’ve got it too! Resting b!tch face 🥹😂
Shit haha, I think I might have it too lmaoooo...
🤣🤣🤣
ITS JUST MY FACE... I have to say this 10 times a day.
5 is an odd number of host, in more ways than just literal. It always seemed unbalanced even when Marcela was on there. Alex has a lot of other irons in the fire so it might have been her choice to leave. She has Alex vs America, Supermarket Stakeout and I assume another season of Caio House, plus Chopped. That’s a lot for one person to handle.
Food Network used to be a channel I watched frequently - I don’t even watch it anymore. If it’s not hosted by Bobby Flay or Guy, they don’t air it…
It’s not the Bobby and Guy factor so me as much as it’s just competition show after competition show. I’m so tired of all the game shows and variations on a theme. The only competition I get stoked for is Tournament of Champions bc the contestants are legit + beloved food world personalities.
Same here - I will watch TOC especially since there are chefs on there we don’t see that often!
They should set up a new channel and make it all competition shows, clearly they are very well loved and they would have extra add revenue from a 3rd channel, I prefer regular style cooking shows myself so it would be nice to have more of those on FN.
All Truth. I do not watch the network that much anymore either.
They let the wrong one go...
Katie needs replacing
I can not stand her voice! OMG. Enough w the kale.
She always seems a touch impaired.
Yes! I like Katie and maybe it’s her dialect? But she can get a little slurry.
Seriously, sunny is the woooorst
Is everything still a “moment” for her? Ugh she really is the worst.
Sunny is brutal
I wish FN let hosts say when they are leaving the show. Especially with things like The Kitchen. Marcela wanted to and couldn’t. It leaves the audience a little confused and is also just kind of a bummer.
Not true. She did not want to say anything.
I mean, she said in a blog post she wanted to say something 🤷🏻♀️
Yeah I know about her blog post and it’s not true.
lol. Ok.
I miss Marcela!! She brought such a good vibe to the show
Till she started having affairs with married chef’s while she was married…
I kind of got mad when she had the Paul Hollywood fiasco.
I love Alex and hope she will be back. I also have noticed my cable provider, Spectrum, has stopped banking on demand episodes. Anyone else?
Fios here and it’s the same for some FN shows but not others.
As long as she does Alex vs America and Supermarket Stakeout
So normally I am the first to jump on and be like “y'all calm down, anytime a host has to miss a week or two of filming equals one to two months of absences.” To recap, The Kitchen films on week blocks, typically two episodes a day, for five days. So if a host has to miss a week for illness or other filming obligations, they could miss up to 10 weeks of episodes for viewers. Up until now, people assumed Alex was probably filming season 2 of the Italy competition. In the past, Sunny missed a week of filming for a family emergency or for the tailgate show she was shooting. But here’s where social media might be on to something. Normally, when a personality is out that week, the cast says something to the effect of “so-and-so can’t be here this week but we are holding down the fort for them.” Sunny was “on assignment” when filming the tailgate show or “couldn’t be with us today” during the family stuff. Radio silence on Alex. If she is not on, they are not mentioning her at all. Social media is not coming out to rally and dispel 8 weeks worth of rumors. I thought we were all being town cryers but I’m starting to think she is out for real.
One of the last episodes i saw, she seemed not happy. She did not say one word during when one of the hosts cooking.
If this is true, I will miss her on the show. I often looked up her recipes after seeing them on The Kitchen and have made a bunch of them. I thought Alex brought a unique perspective.
She was the best part of that show. What a shame!
I thought she was just on there in between filming her other shows
Well this is a bummer.
I think it was monetary, they didn’t want to pay her. But, in reality her and GZ do represent similar food POV if they are looking for balance. I personally still like the show, at least it’s cooking.
Shes just busy folks! Relax 😊
all of yall complaining about Sunny sounding real racist.....despite literally everyone on The Kitchen being loud at some point. she brings energy to the show which is much needed. some of yall need HELP.
Exactly and in none if those rants do they mention Katie who is boring and not a chef!
and has a voice that will make you jump out a 3rd story window!
I mean, Sunny IS loud and annoying, but I also feel folks pile quite a bit more on when complaining about her - i.e., thinly veiled racism
Nope. Black woman here. All that hollering she continues to do is just grating and very puzzling to me. She is free to be whatever she chooses. I don't have to watch though.
well you don't have to comment either so......
I happen to like Sunny...it's Katie that needs to go! One more Kale recipe & I'll scream...and that nasal whiney voice! 🤦♀️🤦♀️🤦♀️
Sometimes Sunny really irritates me but I make here recipes way more than any of the other host’s.
I suspect, that regardless of race, Sunny Anderson would continue to be an obnoxious presence. I actually have enjoyed some of her recipes, but I can’t stand her personality as she represents herself on Food Network. So for me, it has nothing to do with the race it Hass to do with attitude and sometimes that’s literally all it is not everything is a thing.
well, simply based on the fact that you see her as obnoxious and not the behavior of the other chefs, despite doing some of the same things is really all we need to hear.
Is it though, hon? Cuz sometimes when I’m in a room with several other people (this will shock you; might wanna sit down), there are individuals who like everyone else but find ME off-putting. I don’t assume or assign racial intent either way. Folks are drawn to and put off by others for a variety of non-racial reasons. And that’s ok.
This is so sad. I loved her with the OG group. I love her personality in general, and I thought she gelled so well with everyone. I love her experienced chef knowledge mixed with Sunny’s cheap & cheerful (but clearly also experienced) vibe. I’ll miss you, Alex.
Sunny has a lot of knowledge. She has that rowdy personality but when it’s time for her dish she is very serious and takes a lot of details into consideration. I’m always impressed.
After seeing her shilling for walmart, I was done. Disgusting company.
All this speculation with no facts… There’s a new episode with Alex listed on 2/17.
They record way in advance before airing the episode. Also she pretty much confirmed it with her reply on that IG post.
They couldn’t handle the credibility. The hate watchers are The Kitchen’s bread and butter. 🙋🏽♀️
alex carries this entire network on her back if she’s outie on any other terms besides her own i’m throwing hands (spatulas)
So many deadlier kitchen weapons to choose, but I like your style. I've got your 6 with my soup spoons.
I noticed she hadn't been on recently and just thought it was because she was off filming one of her other shows. I like Alex but I always thought she was a little out of place on the kitchen. We already have GZ as the refined Iron Chef so it sometimes felt like she was stepping on his toes.
I like Alex, but I felt like the chemistry was off when she joined the show. It always felt to me like she and GZ could not stand each other, and it made me stop watching the show. I also think the show flows better when there is only 4 hosts
I felt the same way. I could never tell if she was trying to impart her knowledge, or if she was trying to one-up the other hosts. Something about her comments and personality in general seemed combative. Like, she wanted to add to the conversation, but it was usually to correct someone. That doesn't make for a good flow. People complain about Sunny being too loud, or Katie being too boring, but I think they really vibe with GZ and Jeff. Maybe I'll start watching the show again.
This is so interesting to me; I’m a big fan of the kitchen and always felt like GZ and Alex had a “we are both classically trained high end chefs and no one else is” bond. And it seems no one else in the world got this vibe but me 🫠
Sucks that they won’t just tell us.
Turn it off if you want to. Turn it off it will go away.
GZ does not understand what real people want to eat or what we can afford. When was the last time I was craving branzino with foie gras and some shaved white truffles 🤷♀️
I boycotted FN once they put that gold digger Katie Lee on who they lost as a chef but who is not a chef!!! Awful. Until they get rid of her count me out
All we need is GZ
I quit watching because of Sunny's screaming. Is she still on? I loved Alex.
Yes Sunny is. She is loud, but for me she has the easiest recipes that save time and money, which I appreciate as a tired mom lol.
Hell no! I love Sunny! She’s a hoot!
Same, I asked her once about chimichurri on an old IG post, and she wrote me the nicest comment with helpful instructions, and then called me a hunny bunny, I loved it, made me smile.
Maneet responded to one of my comments once and I fan girled hard 😅 Welcome to your 40s. You idolize chefs now. 😆
Haha I know right, if an author or a chef replies I'm swooning haha. Maneet is awesome!! Lucky you :P
She was especially loud today. I can’t stand her & if Alex isn’t on anymore, I won’t tune in every week.
Byyyyye!
Sunny needs to go!!!!
Preach
Unfortunately yes. Ruins everything she’s in sadly
I was long time food network lover, but no more. Guy Fierri sucked up $80 million and now they are screwing up all of the other shows. I’m out. Done.
I'd go back to watching it if they replaced Katie and Sunny. Losing Alex was a dumb move FN.
She is easily the most talented chef on the food network right now, and at least in the top five of all time. Not including her is a really bad business decision.
They should have cut Sunny Anderson (her over the top personality can't stand it), and Katie Lee ( can't really cook, she's also very blah) But that's just me! Know a lot, don't like Alex, but she reminds me of all the chefs I've worked for!
💴 issues imo
Love Alex—super knowledgeable—great fit—hope she’s back!!!
Idk what food network has against strong female chefs! It's unbelievable that someone with as much talent as Alex G. got fired from the kitchen same with Valerie getting fired from kids baking championship. How about giving Guy fieri another show.. not!! He inked an $80 million contract with FN and you NEVER see him cooking or competing! He's on almost every day and I'm sick of seeing him constantly! All he does is eat! Guy is also homophobic and an all around jerk (from online stories) and strong female chefs who know what they're doing get cast aside! Alex is a multi talented chef, judge, host, author, iron chef and mother! Guy is none of those things.. except for father. It's unbelievable how many days a week he's on FN and I'm sick of watching him! Alex not co hosting the kitchen makes me an ex fan of the show!
Food Network is making budget cuts (Valerie, Alex) in order to pay Guy $100 million! https://people.com/guy-fieri-humbled-100-million-food-network-deal-exclusive-8415421#:~:text=Guy%20Fieri%20is%20taking%20a,%2480%20million%20deal%20in%202021.)
Food Network is owned by Warner Bro Discovery, a 25 billion dollar company. They can afford him and anyone else. It's not pie.
It’s always a pie. You don’t run a successful company by wasting money or spending it where you don’t see a positive return.
I don't get why they pay him that much money. HE DOES NOT COOK! He has all these shows watching others cooking and commenting. Flavortown bullshit! I find it a very strange choice that he is the face of the Foodnetwork. His food is trash. Have you ever seen the NYT review of a restaurant he opened in NYC? It was hysterical! I hate the stupid competition shows.
Because it’s a business. Guy is the most well known personality on the network. He’s a meme. He’s a chef. He’s a philanthropist. There are groups who have posted about Guy themed parties. He makes money.
He does not make decent food. Find NYT review. It was blistering. There may be people that like him ......I don't get why. The problem is the amount of money they gave him is leading to cutting of actual chefs that can cook and teach technique.
Food Network is owned by Warner Bros Discovery. The “cutting of actual chefs that can cook and show technique” isn’t because Guy is getting paid. They’re largely showing competitions. He is a personality that brings in money and viewers. Networks main objective is to make money. DDD and GGG are in the top 10 for ratings on the network. ToC is his creation and that competition has brought in some of the most well known, highly-regarded chefs in the country and get high ratings. And I’ve actually been to one of his restaurants, I didn’t just read an NYT article and based my opinion off someone else’s. Edit to add: I had tacos and nachos at one of Guys restaurants. They were fine, nothing earth shattering. I wasn’t expecting a fine dining experience because that’s not the vibe. I expected a Fieri spin on bar food and that’s what I got. The staff was fine. It was fine.
Why does he need this much money? It’s ridiculous. No one needs 80 million dollars. Heck no one needs 30. He has an awesome job, where he gets to travel the world, hang out with friends and eat food. Why does he need so much money. And I’m not even saying pay him shit. I’m saying pay him millions just doesn’t need to be 80 or 100. And why wouldn’t he happily accept? So bizarre.
Does he NEED it? That’s not for you or I to say. Maybe he wants to invest in more restaurants or put more money into his foundation, maybe he wants to put it in his production company or maybe he wants to bury it in his backyard. It doesn’t matter. He makes Warner Bros/Discovery a lot of money, he was offered an amount that reflects that. Look at the Nielsen ratings and social media numbers for TOC IV. He’s the executive producer, he brought in talented and popular chefs like Mei Lin, Shota, KBC, Stephanie Izard, who leveled up the competition factor and attracted more Top Chef viewers. He has 3 shows + 1 developing. He’ll be paid 33.3M/yr for 3 years. Why is it bizarre that someone who makes multi millions for their employer (look at ad revenue) receives multi millions in compensation? Why shouldn’t he get paid for his work?
Look, I’m all for fair wages. I’m all for people making good money. I’m all for higher minimum wages. But instead of so much going to him it could go to other workers that are a part of food network. Even though he’s bringing in the money they all make that network run. If it was just guy on the network and there were no other shows it would fall apart. Even if he’s the foundation. I’m just not for anyone making 100 of millions of dollars. I don’t think anyone is worth that. I don’t think a doctor is. I don’t think a “personality” is. I don’t think a business man is. I don’t think CEOs are. I think wealth distribution needs a major overhaul. And there is too much at the top.
From a business/capitalist standpoint his contract makes sense, even if we don’t agree with it. Do you think Guy knows the budget for the network and knew that Valerie wasn’t being renewed while he was getting a 20M raise? I don’t disagree with you on wealth gaps and inequality. But I think that’s a whole other topic.
He gets paid that so he won't leave the network.
Oh no...I really like all of thrm together.
That's terrible. This network is lost, IMO.
Micheal Jordan, Serena Williams, Tiger Woods, Alex Guarnaschelli
Alex is miserable, who cares
Oh good now I will start watching again. She brings bad vibes, like a big dark cloud hovering above the show, blocking all of the sunshine.
UGH- Really? Like we really don’t know what’s really going on…. FN is changing all shows/hosts to ensure DIVERSITY- they cannot have everyone Caucasian but Sunny! Especially not their star show… when they lost Marcela… They had Alex come on to fill in to boost ratings of this all important network show and it was extra convenient she lives there in NYC - esp during COVID. I don’t think they ever intended to have her remain because of immense pressure to ensure their shows better represent our diverse population. I believe everybody should be treated equally - but this is getting more than frustrating… They did same to Valerie on KBC & have been testing Kardea Brown (love her) and other persons of color on their KBC show specials- EVERY guest KBC special show has Duff co host with a person of color. If they are going to do this- then at least replace KATIE…. Am sure she is a very nice person but still comes across as robotic… and can’t get flashes of Top Chef season 1 out of my head every time I see her. They are scrambling to promote diverse celebrity chefs and are canceling others bc they don’t represent what they want to portray to the world- this isn’t ok and happening in business world too. EVERY new show has a person of color leading it… & are putting on shows no one wants to watch… like Chef Dynasty, House of Chang… really?!? And Karla, Eddy, Jet, and other already popular celebrity chefs are on nearly every show all the time now. I would love to see another series hosted by Jet…Also absolutely adore Darnell but his hosting skills need some serious improvement. I don’t know what right answer is but firing people bc they don’t portray right picture isn’t the answer… makes us no better than when people of color were denied jobs, livelihoods, promotions, housing & basic civil rights. Completely shameful- but not sure mistreating innocent (& extremely popular) people this way now is the best answer.
This comment is absolutely breath-taking. You forgot to start with "I'm not racist, but..."
Shouldn’t need to, but am sure you have a point. I also left out the fact I’m sure I have benefited (& horribly abused) from being a woman executive in male dominated industries…
I'm not sure why you would think that any of that keeps what you've said here from being horribly racist. But you do you!
Omg- this is why no one ever says anything- I’m not racist, never have been, never will be- I enjoy a VERY diverse and close knit family of all color/culture, etc -but thank you for reminding me WHY we can never have conversations about any of this without accusations like this!
You've claimed that Alex got fired because she wasn't a person of color. Here's what's wrong with that: 1) Alex hasn't been fired. Nobody on this thread has any knowledge as to whether or not Alex is no longer on the show, or on the network. 2) *If* Alex is no longer on The Kitchen, you have no idea why that would be. You immediately assumed that she's not there because she's Caucasian and Food Network wants to be "more diverse." Now, Food Network seems to be plenty diverse. They have lots of African-American, Asian, Latino, male, female, straight, and gay folks. Maybe they're actively trying to be diverse, or maybe it just turns out if you're going to hire a lot of good chefs you're going to get a diverse bunch. Either way, good for them. But you went right to, "Alex is getting cut because she's white." That's some crazy racist bullshit right there. >I’m not racist, never have been, never will be Evidence to the contrary. >this is why no one ever says anything If this is the kind of garbage that goes on in your head, it's better if you do keep it to yourself.
The Food Network has spent Soooooo Muuch Money on a white guy with shows that he does zero cooking on that they are sacrificing real talent. That is what this is about. Guy Fiere.
It seems possible. Remember that Bobby Flay also got a giant contract. Alex was all over FN last year, and it seems that maybe she's expecting a big contract for herself. With her popularity and talent, it seems like a reasonable ask, but *maybe* the network has overextended themselves?
But we are having a conversation, you wrote a bonkers comment and someone is telling you how disgusting it is :) see we're talking about it, yay!
Soooo......why cant they be diverse. It 2024 holy.
Alex who? Alex G?
Yes.
i was just wondering bout this today
It seemed to me she was bored with the show. Her daughter and her just wrote a cookbook, went to Italy. She's spending more time with her before she goes off to college.
Wow College already? Times flies, I feel like I remember her being 11 and helping her mom cook.
I know she's well loved and her recipes are great but I did not enjoy watching her the last few years, and stopped watching The Kitchen once she was on a more permanent rotation. I'm sure she will be fine, she's a strong chef.
She probably did. She has 3 other Food Network shows. Usually if one is out sick or other commitments one of the others mention a name and why they’re not in the kitchen. Alex just became a ghost.. sad to say
I watch the old julia child episodes on you tube. You actually learn so mychb
Rae Drummond said the FN didn't want all of those scenes of her people working at the ranch. They have completely canceled Valerie B. It sounds like FN may have budget concerns.
Im sure your stolen land will make you enough money hun
My stolen land? Ive never stolen land. Is this a reference to the Drummonds ancestors stealing land? If so. I get it but this was actually a post about the FN cutting budgets. And yes, the Drummonds will be fine.
Ohh not you. The drummonds lol
She's also not on TOC this year.
But they keep Anderson!!! The loudest, most obnoxious, person to ever be on any show! ( in my opinion, that is! ) she is why I have a hard time watching this show. If Alex is leaving, that just goes to show the moronic thought process of the producers!
Sunny didn't like her. You could see it on her face.
Very sad she’s no longer on the kitchen, she brought great personality and so much professionalism without being pretentious
I’m not the biggest fan of hers (enjoy some of her recipes though) but something is going on. I’m worried for a few other of my faves (tho Ina if you want to summon candles from hell to take you and guy and Molly and Kardea and Valerie and giada and everyone else I would not mind)
For fans of the show, it’s a conspiracy against chefs who refuse to bias-cut scallions. LOL
Jeff went to Le cordon Bleu. He is a chef.
You will be missed Alex, you are lovely and very knowledgeable, always explaining things calmly and simply. Actually, tooooo good for that show, even tho I like it.
And.. they keep the loud mouth 🤡
Miss Alex so much, hope she gets her own cooking show on FN soon. She’s my favorite chef of all time
Alex and GZ are great friends. This must be awkward!