‘Top Chef’ host and executive producer Padma Lakshmi recently shared a post on her Instagram to announce she is leaving the show. In the post, she admitted that it wasn’t easy for her to make this decision.

Saying she’s proud of being a part of ‘Top Chef’ for 20 seasons, Lakshmi wrote:

“After much soul-searching, I have made the difficult decision to leave ‘Top Chef.’ Having completed a glorious 20th season as host and exec producer, I am extremely proud to have been a part of building such a successful show and of the impact it has had in the worlds of television and food.”

She continued, hinting at her future plans:

“After 17 years, many of the cast and crew are like family to me, and I will miss working alongside them dearly. I feel it’s time to move and need to make space for ‘Taste The Nation,’ my books, and other creative pursuits. I am deeply thankful to all of you for so many years of love and support.”

In the comments section of Padma’s post, fans and some of her celebrity friends showed her support. Andy Cohen wrote:

“End of an era and an incredible run. You were such an amazing partner and a brilliant host. I have such great memories of our TC days.”

Thankful for ‘Top Chef’ for starting their friendship, Jesse Tyler Ferguson also commented:

“Love you, Padma! I’m so glad that your show brought us together as friends.“

As reported by People, an NBCUniversal spokesperson issued a statement about Padma Lakshmi’s departure, which read:

“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.“

Lakshmi hosted ‘Top Chef’ alongside Gail Simmons and Tom Colicchio. She also hosts Hulu’s ‘Taste The Nation,‘ a travel and food docuseries, which had its second season released on May 5.

‘Top Chef: World All-Stars’ has its season finale on June 8. While Lakshmi’s replacement isn’t named yet, the show has already been renewed for season 21.

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