Padma Lakshmi has announced that she’s officially leaving Top Chef, after working on the show for 19 seasons.
The 52-year-old TV host shared a statement on Twitter on Friday to announce her departure from the show. “After much soul searching, I have made the difficult decision to leave Top Chef,” she wrote.
She continued her comments by reflecting on her time with the competitive reality series, which she’s been the host of since 2006.
“Having completed a glorious 20th season as host and executive producer, I am extremely proud to have been part of building such a successful show,” she wrote.
As she discussed her close relationship with her co-workers, Lakshmi also acknowledged that it’s time for her to focus on new opportunities, including her recently-renewed Hulu series, Taste the Nation.
“After 17 years, many of the cast and crew are like family to me and I will miss working alongside them dearly,” she continued. “I feel it’s time to move on and make space for Taste the Nation, my books and other creative pursuits.”
She concluded her statement with a message to Top Chef fans, adding: “I am deeply thankful to all of you for so many years of love and support.”
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