Valerie Bertinelli Has Strong Words for Food Network Months After Being Fired

Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek’s network of contributors

Valerie Bertinelli, who was fired from hosting and judging Kids Baking Championship in January after 12 seasons, took to social media to share her thoughts on the Food Network three months later.

“I fell in love with Food Network two decades ago because of all the amazing ITK (in the kitchen) shows. 30 minute meals, Ina (Garten), Giada (De Laurentiis)…the list goes on,” she wrote via Threads on Tuesday, April 9. “I learned so much. It’s sad it’s not about cooking and learning any longer. Oh well, that’s just business, folks.”

She’s not alone in her thoughts — her thread was in response to food blogger Marlynn Schotland’s, which said, “I miss actual cooking shows on @foodnetwork. Remember those? Do you know what this world does NOT need? Yet another cooking competition show.”

The TV host received an outpouring of support from fans in the comments, with many even proposing the idea of her launching a new show.

“Girl… The Food Network isn’t the only game in town. Pitch your own show, your way. You’re Valerie effin’ Bertinelli!!! Have home cooking… America loves you,” a user wrote. Another said, “Maybe this is a sign that this the time for YOU to reboot that concept (educational cooking channel) because frankly we are all missing that format!”

Bertinelli shared the news of her departure from the network via Instagram in January 2024. She also previously hosted Valerie’s Home Cooking on the Food Network from 2015 to 2023.

“I’ve been avoiding facing what I got confirmation last night and I didn’t want to talk about it last night [because] I wanted to sleep on it because it really hurt my feelings,” the TV personality expressed in the video. “I know it’s not supposed to. Logically, I know it’s business [and] budget cuts, right? But it really hurt my feelings to know that I’m not going to be asked back to be on Kids Baking Championship really sucks.”

Plenty of followers shared their support, including Khloe Kardashian, who left a heartfelt comment on the post. “Wait!!! What!!!!! I need to sign a petition. I looooove this show and watch it daily. I record it and all,” she wrote. The reality star also shared that “it’ll be hard to imagine it without” her. “The way you are with the children is magical. Your understanding and advice to them is key… This does suck and I understand why your feelings are hurt. 😔”