Meet Kristen Kish, the inspiring new host of Bravo’s Top Chef: taking over from Padma Lakshmi, the openly LGBT, adopted South Korean culinary talent already has a cookbook and a restaurant in Texas
- Last month, Bravo announced that Kristen Kish will take over from Padma Lakshmi as the new host of Top Chef, after Lakshmi confirmed her departure following 17 years at the helm
- Kish won the reality show in 2013, becoming the first woman of colour to do so – and has worked for Michelin-starred chefs and eateries over the years, but she’s also open about her struggles
Last month, Bravo announced that Kristen Kish is set to succeed Padma Lakshmi as the new host of Top Chef – a reality series that offers a glimpse into the competitive, high-pressure environment of the restaurant business.
The news came a month after Lakshmi, who had played her part for 17 years and 19 seasons, announced her departure, saying that “it’s time to move on”, as reported by People.
Kish, now 39, previously won the show’s 10th season and has starred as a guest judge on the series. She opened up to The New York Times about how, while she’s excited to take the new spot, she is also very nervous: “I have severe social anxiety and I’m on television, which is wild,” she said. “I know I’m a walking contradiction.”
Either way, she’s got a world of support, including Lakshmi herself who sent her well wishes for the upcoming season 21, which will debut in 2024.
Here’s everything we know about the culinary talent.
Kristen Kish was adopted from South Korea
