Where 10 Previous Food Network Star Champions Are Today

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  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/06/25 .. vious-food-network-star-champions-are-today.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, June 25th 2025 at 15:28 GMT by Chowhound

Emeril Lagasse: Emeril Lagasse, once a household name with his catchphrase "Bam!" and shows like "Emeril Live," has transitioned from the Food Network to other ventures. After leaving the network in 2007, Lagasse has continued to expand his restaurant empire, which includes Emeril's New Orleans, Emeril's Delmonico, and NOLA. He has also ventured into the world of cookware and kitchen appliances, launching a line of products under his brand. Additionally, Lagasse has authored several cookbooks and hosts a radio show, "Emeril's Table," where he shares recipes and cooking tips. His focus has shifted towards mentoring young chefs and promoting culinary education.

Mario Batali: Mario Batali, known for his Italian cuisine and shows like "Molto Mario," faced a significant career setback due to allegations of sexual misconduct in 2017. Following these allegations, Batali stepped away from his television career and his restaurants. He has since focused on personal growth and rehabilitation, expressing remorse for his actions. Batali has also launched a new line of food products under the name "Mario Batali's Kitchen Essentials," which includes pasta sauces and olive oils. While he no longer appears on television, Batali continues to engage with his audience through social media and occasional public appearances.

Paula Deen: Paula Deen, famous for her Southern cooking and shows like "Paula's Home Cooking," faced a public relations crisis in 2013 when she admitted to using racial slurs in the past. This led to her departure from the Food Network. Since then, Deen has rebuilt her brand through her own network, the Paula Deen Network, which offers cooking shows and lifestyle content. She has also continued to publish cookbooks and host live cooking demonstrations. Deen's focus has shifted towards family-oriented content and promoting her line of kitchen products and food items.

Cat Cora: Cat Cora, the first female Iron Chef on "Iron Chef America," left the Food Network in 2015 to pursue other opportunities. She has since become a prominent figure in the culinary world, hosting shows on other networks and appearing as a guest chef on various programs. Cora has also expanded her restaurant business, opening new locations and launching a line of kitchen products. She is actively involved in philanthropy, particularly in supporting children's health and education initiatives. Cora's career continues to thrive as she balances her television appearances with her business ventures.

Bobby Flay: Bobby Flay, a long-time Food Network star known for shows like "Beat Bobby Flay," has diversified his career beyond the network. While still appearing on Food Network occasionally, Flay has launched his own cooking show on the Cooking Channel, "Bobby and Giada in Italy," with Giada De Laurentiis. He has also expanded his restaurant empire, opening new locations and introducing new concepts. Flay continues to be a prominent figure in the culinary world, hosting cooking demonstrations and participating in food festivals. His focus remains on innovation and pushing the boundaries of American cuisine.

Rachael Ray: Rachael Ray, who rose to fame with her show "30 Minute Meals," has transitioned from the Food Network to her own syndicated talk show, "Rachael Ray." The show, which combines cooking segments with lifestyle and entertainment content, has been a success, allowing Ray to reach a broader audience. She has also continued to publish cookbooks and launch new lines of kitchen products. Ray's career has evolved to encompass not just cooking but also lifestyle and wellness, reflecting her diverse interests and talents.

Giada De Laurentiis: Giada De Laurentiis, known for her Italian cooking and shows like "Everyday Italian," left the Food Network in 2016 to pursue other opportunities. She has since launched her own cooking show on the Cooking Channel, "Giada at Home 2.0," and co-hosts "Bobby and Giada in Italy" with Bobby Flay. De Laurentiis has also expanded her restaurant business, opening new locations and introducing new concepts. She continues to be a prominent figure in the culinary world, hosting cooking demonstrations and participating in food festivals. Her focus remains on promoting Italian cuisine and sharing her passion for food with a global audience.

Alton Brown: Alton Brown, known for his scientific approach to cooking and shows like "Good Eats," has continued to expand his career beyond the Food Network. He has launched a successful live tour, "Alton Brown Live: Eat Your Science," which combines cooking demonstrations with humor and audience interaction. Brown has also continued to publish cookbooks and host shows on other networks, such as "Cutthroat Kitchen" on the Cooking Channel. His focus remains on educating audiences about the science of cooking and promoting culinary curiosity.

Ina Garten: Ina Garten, known for her show "Barefoot Contessa," has continued to build her brand beyond the Food Network. She has published several best-selling cookbooks and hosts a podcast, "Be My Guest with Ina Garten," where she interviews celebrities and shares recipes. Garten has also launched a line of kitchen products and food items, expanding her reach into the retail market. Her focus remains on promoting home cooking and sharing her love for entertaining with a global audience.

Guy Fieri: Guy Fieri, known for his show "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," has continued to expand his career beyond the Food Network. He has launched several successful restaurant concepts, including Guy Fieri's Vegas Kitchen and Bar and Chicken Guy! Fieri has also continued to host shows on other networks, such as "Guy's Ranch Kitchen" on the Cooking Channel. His focus remains on promoting American cuisine and supporting local restaurants, reflecting his passion for food and community.