Valerie Bertinelli’s Replacement Announced by Food Network

However, after almost a decade of serving as cohost, Bertinelli’s run on the show came to an abrupt end in early 2023, leaving her and her fans heartbroken.

Valerie’s Departure and Its Impact

In March 2023, Bertinelli revealed via an emotional Instagram video that she had been let go from Kids Baking Championship. The actress opened up about how the news was difficult to process, sharing that her termination had come as a painful surprise. Though she understood it was a business decision, citing budget cuts, she admitted that the news stung deeply.

“I’ve been avoiding facing what I got confirmation last night, and I didn’t want to talk about it because it really hurt my feelings,” Bertinelli shared in her tearful message. “I know it’s business, but it really hurt my feelings to know that I’m not going to be asked back.”

For Bertinelli, Kids Baking Championship was more than just a job; it became a critical outlet during a tough period in her life. The actress spoke candidly about how the show had “saved her life” at a time when she was struggling emotionally. The daily interaction with the talented young bakers and the collaborative environment of the show gave her a renewed sense of purpose.

“Without sounding like a drama queen, the show saved my life,” she revealed. “Working with all those really wonderful people and feeling productive, spreading kindness, and knowing I could help in some small way really helped me through a difficult time.”

Despite her departure, Bertinelli expressed immense gratitude for her time on the show and offered heartfelt words of encouragement to future contestants: “You’re some of the best bakers in America right now, and if you don’t make it to the next round, remember it’s not because you’re not good. Everyone has bad days.”

Valerie’s New Role on The Drew Barrymore Show

Though her exit from Kids Baking Championship left a void, Bertinelli soon found herself embarking on a new journey. In the wake of her departure, she joined The Drew Barrymore Show as a lifestyle expert, a new role that promises to keep her busy and connected with viewers.

“I’m going to be a part of The Drew Barrymore Show,” Bertinelli announced enthusiastically. “I’m super excited about that. I’ll be going to New York a lot to hang out with Drew and see where that takes me.”

Her involvement in The Drew Barrymore Show will allow her to tap into her passion for lifestyle content, giving her a new platform to continue connecting with fans.

Kardea Brown Named Valerie’s Replacement

While fans will undoubtedly miss Bertinelli’s presence on Kids Baking Championship, Food Network recently announced her replacement: Delicious Miss Brown star Kardea Brown. Brown, 36, is no stranger to the show, having served as a judge in previous seasons. Her charismatic and warm personality has already won over audiences, and in November 2023, she cohosted the Kids Baking Championship Thanksgiving Special, giving viewers a glimpse of what her official role as cohost will look like.

In early 2025, Brown will officially join Duff Goldman as the new cohost of Kids Baking Championship, ushering in a new era for the popular show. Brown expressed her excitement in a statement: “Having the chance to share my love of food has been a dream come true, and I am so thrilled to continue this journey with Food Network.”

She added, “I look forward to celebrating the holidays with fans and celebrating these extra special and talented bakers, big and small, and all their incredible creations.”

Who Is Kardea Brown?

Born in Charleston, South Carolina, Kardea Brown is a self-taught chef and the star of Food Network’s Delicious Miss Brown. Known for her focus on Southern cuisine, Brown’s rise to fame began when she started sharing her Lowcountry recipes with the world. Before she became a household name on the Food Network, she hosted private pop-up dinners called “New Gullah Supper Club,” highlighting the rich culinary traditions of her Gullah Geechee heritage.

Since launching Delicious Miss Brown in 2019, Brown has quickly established herself as a prominent figure in the culinary world. She brings her personal history and passion for comfort food to every dish, winning fans for her approachability and infectious enthusiasm for Southern cooking.

Brown’s appointment as cohost of Kids Baking Championship has been met with excitement, as viewers are eager to see her chemistry with Duff Goldman and how her unique culinary background will influence the show. Her experience as a judge on the program, coupled with her deep love of baking, makes her a natural fit for the role.

As Kids Baking Championship embarks on its new season, Brown’s fresh perspective and dynamic energy are expected to bring an exciting new dimension to the series. Fans of the show, while sad to see Bertinelli go, have already welcomed Brown with open arms, looking forward to what’s sure to be a delightful new chapter in the show’s legacy.

In her parting message to fans of Kids Baking Championship, Bertinelli graciously acknowledged the new bakers and the upcoming season: “Even though I won’t be there, I’ll be with you in spirit.”

Fans React to Valerie Bertinelli’s Departure: “No One Can Replace Her”

Valerie Bertinelli’s exit from Kids Baking Championship has sparked outrage among her devoted fans, many of whom took to social media to express their disappointment and frustration with Food Network’s decision. “No one can replace Valerie!” some fans declared, arguing that her warmth, charm, and motherly presence were irreplaceable on the show. A number of viewers even directed harsh criticism toward Kardea Brown, questioning whether she could fill the void left by Bertinelli.

Some fans were quick to criticize Food Network, accusing the company of making a mistake by cutting ties with Bertinelli. A vocal segment of social media went as far as to unfairly criticize Brown, despite her long history with the network and her culinary talent.

However, others are urging a more open-minded approach. While Valerie’s departure was undoubtedly emotional for her and her fans, Kardea Brown brings her own unique talents and charisma to the table. Rather than rushing to judgment, it’s only fair to give Brown a chance to shine in the role before jumping to conclusions. The upcoming season of Kids Baking Championship might just surprise everyone, proving that both Valerie’s legacy and Kardea’s fresh energy can co-exist in celebrating the young bakers of tomorrow.