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Note: This article discusses sensitive topics including allegations of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.
Unexpectedly, the Food Network, known for its family-friendly programming, has encountered significant scandals involving some of its most recognized personalities.
Here, we outline a timeline of notable controversies surrounding the network and its stars.
2010: Juan-Carlos Cruz and a Murder-for-Hire Plot
Juan-Carlos Cruz, the former host of Calorie Commando, made headlines in October 2010 when he pleaded no contest to soliciting two homeless individuals to murder his wife, Jennifer Campbell. He was subsequently sentenced to nine years in prison in December. Reports indicated that Campbell was dealing with severe personal struggles related to fertility and may have felt incapable of seeking help, considering the implications of suicide as a sin. Following these events, Food Network clarified that Cruz had not been affiliated with them for several years.
2011: Ina Garten’s Controversial Wish Denials
In March 2011, television chef Ina Garten, known for the show Barefoot Contessa, faced backlash after it emerged that she had declined the Make-a-Wish request of a young cancer patient, Enzo Pereda, on two occasions. The situation escalated with public criticism, leading to Garten’s spokesperson stating that she was unable to fulfill the numerous requests she received each month for charitable engagements. Eventually, Garten did invite Pereda to her set, but the offer was declined by the family.
2013: Paula Deen’s Racial Controversy
Paula Deen was dismissed from her role at Food Network in June 2013 after revealing in a deposition that she had used a racial slur in the past. This disclosure came out during a legal battle concerning allegations of racial and sexual discrimination. Deen expressed her regret in a public apology, labeling her language as “totally unacceptable,” while Food Network announced it would not renew her contract.
2017: Ree Drummond’s “Asian Hot Wings” Prank
A segment from Reese Drummond’s The Pioneer Woman aired in March 2017, stirring controversy when she presented what she termed “Asian hot wings” to a group of men, later revealing it was a joke involving traditional buffalo wings. Audiences criticized the portrayal and lack of authenticity, arguing for improved Asian representation on the network and expressing disappointment in how dishes were mocked rather than celebrated.
2017: Mario Batali and Allegations of Misconduct
In December 2017, accusations surfaced against chef Mario Batali from multiple women who alleged inappropriate touching. Food Network announced the cancellation of Batali’s revival series Molto Mario. Batali acknowledged the truth in the accusations, asserting responsibility for his actions. By January 2019, the NYPD closed its investigations due to insufficient evidence, and in May 2022, Batali was acquitted of charges in a separate trial. However, he later settled lawsuits related to these allegations.
2018: Josh Denny’s Social Media Backlash
Josh Denny, the host of Ginormous Food, sparked outrage in May 2018 when he compared the phrase “straight white male” to a racial slur. His controversial history resurfaced, showcasing offensive tweets targeting Asian women. Denny continued to provoke criticism in subsequent years for other derogatory comments, prompting Food Network to distance itself from him and remove his episodes.
2018: Andrew Zimmern’s Comments on Chinese Cuisine
In November 2018, Andrew Zimmern faced backlash for derogatory remarks regarding Chinese restaurants, claiming his establishment would improve the quality of Chinese cuisine in Minnesota. Critics highlighted the insensitivity of his comments and his failure to appreciate the contributions of traditional Chinese establishments. Zimmern later issued a public apology for any offense caused.
2020: Chad Barrett’s Domestic Violence Allegations
June 2020 saw Food Network remove contestant Chad Barrett from its programming schedule after seven women accused him of domestic violence ahead of his trial on separate charges. The network expressed its decision to pull episodes featuring Barrett following reports of the allegations. In December of that year, Barrett received a 60-day jail sentence after pleading no contest to misdemeanor domestic violence.
2022: Ariel Robinson’s Conviction in a Foster Child Case
Ariel Robinson, known for winning Worst Cooks in America, was convicted in May 2022 of homicide by child abuse in connection with the death of her three-year-old foster daughter, resulting in a life sentence. Her husband also received prison time for his involvement in the case.
2024: Darnell Ferguson’s Legal Troubles
In February 2024, Darnell Ferguson, the host of SuperChef Grudge Match, was indicted for several charges including first-degree strangulation and assault related to an alleged incident with his wife. Although Ferguson pleaded not guilty, his wife publicly defended him, insisting he is an excellent father and questioning the credibility of the accusations. Nevertheless, the trial is set to begin in May 2025.
For additional support regarding experiences of sexual assault, domestic abuse, or child abuse, resources such as the National Helpline, National Domestic Violence Hotline, and Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline are available for those in need.
Source
www.tvinsider.com