Food Network viewers were left feeling gutted when they found out that Valerie Bertinelli wouldn't be coming back for another season of Kids Baking Championship. The beloved host opened up about her unexpected exit from the show in early 2024, and it was clear that her departure was not just business—it was personal. Let me tell you, this wasn't just any show for Valerie—it was her lifeline during some tough times.
How Did Valerie Bertinelli Become Part of ‘Kids Baking Championship’?
Back in 2015, Valerie Bertinelli stepped into the world of baking when she joined forces with Duff Goldman on Kids Baking Championship. Together, they created magic in the kitchen, guiding young bakers through the sweet and sometimes sticky world of competitive baking. By 2018, Valerie's relationship with Food Network had grown even stronger. She signed a multiseries deal, as reported by Variety, which paved the way for her to host several shows, including Valerie’s Home Cooking, Family Food Showdown, and Family Restaurant Rivals. Her presence became a staple on the network, where her warmth and kindness shone through in every episode.
What Led to Valerie Bertinelli Leaving ‘Kids Baking Championship’?
On January 20, 2024, Valerie broke the news that she was no longer part of the Kids Baking Championship family. The announcement came as a shock to her fans, many of whom couldn't believe the show would go on without her.
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In an emotional Instagram video, Valerie expressed how much the show meant to her. "Without sounding like a drama queen, the show saved my life," she said. "Just being around those amazing people, feeling productive, and knowing I could spread kindness—it was like a lifeline for me. So, it really hurts to think I won't be able to go back and say, ‘Hey, I made it through.’”
Valerie, who went through a divorce from husband Tom Vitale in 2022, added, "I wanted to take some time to process this because it really hurt my feelings. Logically, I know it's business, budget cuts, and all that. But emotionally, it stung. Knowing I wouldn't be asked back to Kids Baking Championship really left me heartbroken. It’s tough to swallow."
Not one to let the rumors fly unchecked, Valerie addressed the speculation about her departure the very next day. In a post on X on January 21, 2024, she clarified the situation. "There were never any talks, so no talks could be stalled," she wrote. "I had a feeling I might not be asked back when I noticed I wasn’t included in the holiday specials. Then, I got a text from a third party on Friday telling me I wouldn’t be returning. Honestly, it felt like I was ghosted."
In another heartfelt post, Valerie reassured her fans, "I have zero ill will toward anyone at Food Network. I cherished every moment I spent working with them, and they’re all amazing, kind, and hardworking people. Business is business, but I won’t let lies stand. I may be many things, but greedy or dishonest is not one of them."
Her fans were understandably upset, but Valerie’s manager, Marc Schwartz, stepped in to clarify the situation. "Her deal expired, and they decided not to renew it," he explained in a statement to Variety on January 23, 2024. "They could have come to me with an offer just for Kids, but they never did. That’s all there is to it." Food Network, however, never publicly commented on Valerie's or her manager’s statements.
Who Replaced Valerie Bertinelli on ‘Kids Baking Championship’?
On October 2, 2024, People confirmed that Food Network veteran Kardea Brown would step into Valerie's shoes as the new cohost of Kids Baking Championship. Kardea will join Duff Goldman in the upcoming season, set to air in early 2025.
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"Having the chance to share my love of food has been a dream come true, and I’m so excited to continue this adventure with Food Network," Kardea said in a statement. "I can’t wait to celebrate the holidays with fans and showcase the incredible talent of these young bakers. Their creativity is truly inspiring."
Duff also praised Kardea’s addition to the show. "Kardea has been such a joy to work with," he said. "She’s fantastic with kids and has such a big heart. She’s really bringing something special to the table."
