Rachael Ray’s syndicated TV show is coming to an end after 17 seasons as the multihyphenate prepares new production ventures.
The 54-year-old presenter confirmed the news in a statement to The Post on Friday.
“In my more than 20 years in television, I’ve had 17 wonderful seasons of ‘Rachael’ on daytime television,” the statement read.
“However, I have made the decision that it is time to move on to the next exciting chapter in my broadcasting career.”
The news comes hours after the Food Network star announced she’s teaming up with Intentional Content Team to launch a new production companyFree food studios.
“My passions have evolved from the talk show production and syndication model to a platform unfettered by traditional distribution rules,” her statement continued.
“I’m really excited to be able to introduce and develop new and emerging epicurean talent across all platforms… Thank you to all of our ‘Rachael’ daytime show partners, crew and affiliates, and the great years we’ve all had working together.”
Rumors of the show’s demise swirled in January, when a source told Page Six, “This talk comes back every year because the show is renewed annually. In fact, they are now revamping the show. A decision will not be made until later in the spring.”
The program, which premiered in September 2006, showcased Ray’s culinary skills, as well as celebrity interviews, visits from health and lifestyle experts, makeover segments, and musical performances.
It was nominated for 37 Daytime Emmys and garnered three Outstanding Talk Show Awards throughout its run. The charismatic Ray landed her own show after a recurring stint on ‘The Oprah Winfrey Show’.
Longtime daytime TV personalities, Dr. Phil McGraw and Judge Greg Mathis also recently announced the end of their respective programs.
CBS Television Distribution distributes and produces Ray’s show.
“When Rachael debuted her show 17 years ago, she was a game changer in the daytime space. She made cooking accessible to the masses, taught viewers simple solutions to improve their lives, and pulled great stories from celebrity guests with her recognizable down-to-earth demeanor,” Steve LoCascio, president of CBS Media Ventures, told Term.
“We are proud to have produced such a successful show with Rachael and her team for so many years. We will miss Rachael every day on the air, but we will always be family.”
