The Truth About Anne Burrell Unveiled by 'Worst Cooks' Co-Star Gabe Bertaccini

Gabe Bertaccini Reflects on Working with Anne Burrell on 'Worst Cooks in America'

Gabe Bertaccini enters the premiere of Season 29 of Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible with a mix of emotions. As a chef from Ciao House, he co-hosts and mentors the popular Food Network series alongside Anne Burrell. Burrell, who passed away unexpectedly on June 17, was a staple on the show since its inception up to Season 27. Her return for Season 29 had been highly anticipated by fans.

The season premieres on July 28, featuring Burrell and Bertaccini welcoming a group of performers who shine on stage but struggle in the kitchen. The recruits start with their signature dishes, followed by a challenge to recreate the iconic "winner winner chicken dinner." Throughout the season, participants tackle restaurant classics, global cuisines, and the fan-favorite “Remote Control Chef” challenge. At the end, only one contestant will earn the “Best of the Worst” title and $25,000.

Bertaccini shares his thoughts on working with Burrell during her final TV project and what viewers can expect from the season.

A Celebration of Life

As the premiere approaches, Bertaccini reflects on how fans are mourning the loss of Anne. He believes this season should be a celebration of her life and legacy.

“I think that’s exactly how the season should be approached by everyone who loves Anne and is a fan of Worst Cooks in America,” he says. “I watched the screener for the premiere, and the first five minutes were hard for me. But then I saw Anne’s excitement and happiness on camera, which made it even more special.”

Memories of Anne

Bertaccini recalls the deep connection he and Burrell shared. Over the course of filming, they spent long hours together, building both professional and personal relationships. What stood out to him was how Burrell stayed in touch with the recruits after the show, offering support and encouragement.

“She would send me updates about them, and I’d ask, ‘Are you really in touch with all of them?’ She’d say, ‘Yes, I love them all.’ That speaks to who she was,” he says. “Anne was authentic, and that’s rare in the industry.”

Challenges and Patience

Working with the recruits tested Bertaccini’s patience. He jokes that it felt like running a kindergarten. Many of the participants were talented in their respective fields—opera singers, YouTube stars, musicians—but struggled in the kitchen.

“Anne told me before the show, ‘You have no idea until you get there.’ And I didn’t,” he admits. “It was worse than I expected. Some of the things we saw and tasted were horrifying.”

Despite the challenges, Bertaccini found joy in the moments when the recruits truly wanted to learn. “There’s nothing more exciting than someone who puts themselves into what they’re doing, even if they’re not good at it,” he says.

Big Personalities and Fun

The recruits brought big personalities to the show, which added to the entertainment. “If someone was bad at cooking and had a bad personality, that could be a disaster,” Bertaccini says. “But they had big personalities, and it made the show fun.”

He also appreciates the courage it takes to participate in such a public setting. “Good for them for trying,” he says. “I don’t think I would do that on national TV.”

The Remote Control Chef Challenge

One of the most memorable parts of the season is the return of the “Remote Control Chef” challenge. Bertaccini recalls the chaos and humor that came with it. “I have PTSD from that challenge,” he laughs. “We had a dish called the flying spaghetti, which ended up in the trash. It was so bad, I couldn’t believe it.”

Future Recruits and Cooking Skills

Bertaccini hopes to see more young adults, especially those in their 20s and 30s, participate in the show. He believes cooking is a valuable skill that many overlook in today’s fast-paced world.

“Cooking is a way to connect with others, celebrate, and express love,” he says. “It’s a skill that teaches patience and appreciation for the process.”

Final Memories with Anne

Bertaccini cherishes his last interaction with Anne, which happened at the finale. After a long day of filming, he fell ill, and Anne gave him a heartfelt card with a crocheted heart. “It was such a beautiful gesture,” he says. “That’s exactly who she was—kind, thoughtful, and genuine.”

Season 29 Premieres on July 28

Worst Cooks in America: Talented and Terrible premieres on July 28 at 9/8c on the Food Network.

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Malcolm-Jamal Warner's Iconic Theo Moments on The Cosby Show

A Legacy of Theo on The Cosby Show

The passing of Malcolm Jamal-Warner, who played the beloved character Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show, has left a deep impact on many. His portrayal of the only son of the Huxtable family not only made him a household name but also served as a refreshing contrast to the often-negative stereotypes surrounding young Black men in America. For over a decade, from 1984 to 1992, Theo became a familiar and cherished figure for millions of viewers, acting as a surrogate sibling for many.

When news broke that Jamal-Warner passed away at the age of 54 while on a family trip to Costa Rica, it was a devastating blow to fans of the show. In tribute to his memory, let’s revisit some of the most memorable moments that defined Theo’s character on The Cosby Show.

Season 1, Episode 15 – Designer Shirt-Gate

One of the most iconic episodes featuring Theo is the fifth episode of Season 1, where he becomes anxious about wearing a designer Gordon Gatrelle yellow shirt priced at $95 for an upcoming date. His father, Heathcliff Huxtable (played by Bill Cosby), insists that he return the expensive shirt and purchase a cheaper one for $30.

At the time, Theo’s sister Denise (Lisa Bonet) was an aspiring designer, so she offered to sew a replica for a reduced price. However, Theo was clearly unimpressed with the result.

“Is this my shirt? Is this the shirt I paid $30 for? Is this the shirt they're supposed to think is a Gordon Gatrelle?” he exclaimed when he received the homemade version.

Though this scene aired in 1984, it has since become a cultural touchstone, frequently shared and referenced online, proving its lasting appeal.

Season 1, Episode 17 – Just Say No

In Episode 17 of Season 1, Cliff and Clair Huxtable confront Theo after he finds a joint in his geography book. Theo assures them that he doesn’t use drugs and claims the joint isn’t his.

While his parents believe him, they remain concerned. Later, Theo confronts his classmate Tony Braxton, who admits to placing the joint in Theo’s book when the teacher walked in. Theo then urges Tony to confess, which he does at the end of the episode.

This storyline highlighted the importance of making responsible choices and reinforced the values that The Cosby Show was known for.

Season 2, Episode 15 – Shakespeare and a Friend

Another standout moment involves Theo and his friend Cockroach, played by Carl Anthony Pane III. In Season 2, Episode 15, both characters are given a test on Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Rather than reading the full text, they opt for a condensed version.

Despite Theo’s confidence that he passed the test, his mother humorously insists he read the entire play. This scene showcases the dynamic between Theo and his family, blending humor with the challenges of schoolwork.

These moments, among others, helped shape Theo into a character that resonated deeply with audiences. His journey on The Cosby Show remains a significant part of television history and a testament to the impact of thoughtful, well-crafted storytelling.

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Devon and Abby's Engagement and Other Soap Moments from July 24

A Look Back at Memorable Soap Moments from July 24

July 24 has been a day filled with significant moments in the world of daytime soaps. From iconic character debuts to major relationship developments, this date has seen several unforgettable events that have shaped the stories of long-running shows like Days of Our Lives, General Hospital, and The Young and the Restless.

Patsy Pease Joins Days of Our Lives

One of the most notable events on July 24 was the debut of Patsy Pease on Days of Our Lives. She took on the role of Kimberly Brady, a character that would become central to the show's storyline. Before joining Days of Our Lives, Pease had already made a name for herself on Search for Tomorrow, where she portrayed Cissie Mitchell Sentell from 1978 to 1980. Her chemistry with Charles Shaughnessy, who played Shane Donovan, made them one of the most popular couples on the show. In 1986, Pease was honored with the Soap Opera Digest Award for Outstanding Actress in a Leading Role on a Daytime Serial. She remained with the show until 1990, returned briefly from 1991 to 1992, and continued to make appearances over the years.

Josh Taylor’s Exit and Return to Days of Our Lives

In 1987, actor Josh Taylor left Days of Our Lives as Chris Kositchek. He had been with the show since 1977, but his departure was due to behind-the-scenes issues on another show he was starring on, Valerie. His sitcom wife, Valerie Harper, was fired in a contract dispute, leading to a rebranding of the show as Valerie's Family: The Hogans. Taylor eventually returned to Days of Our Lives in 1997, taking on a new role as Roman Brady, which he continues to play to this day.

Robert Kelker-Kelly’s Final Appearance as Bo Brady

Another significant moment occurred in 1995 when Robert Kelker-Kelly appeared for the final time on Days of Our Lives as Bo Brady. He had taken over the role from Peter Reckell in 1992, following Reckell's decision to leave the show. When Days of Our Lives released Kelker-Kelly from his contract, it allowed Reckell to return to the role that had made him a daytime superstar.

Carly Spencer Becomes Owner of Kelly’s Diner

In 2023, fans were surprised to learn that Carly Spencer (played by Laura Wright) had become the new owner of Kelly’s Diner. The eatery had been part of her family for years, and when her daughter Josslyn Jacks arrived, Carly revealed that her mother, Bobbie Spencer, had gifted it to her for just one dollar. Carly expressed her excitement about expanding the diner and making it "bigger and better than ever."

Devon Winters and Abby Newman Get Engaged

On The Young and the Restless in 2024, Devon Winters (Bryton James) proposed to Abby Newman (Melissa Ordway), and she happily accepted. Melissa Ordway shared her thoughts on the engagement, highlighting the deep connection between the characters. She noted that Abby felt a strong sense of security in her relationship with Devon, emphasizing that they had experienced both the best and worst times together. Ordway also praised the sincerity of Devon’s proposal, calling it genuine and heartfelt. With a son together, Abby already felt married to Devon, and their decision to tie the knot felt natural and meaningful.

These events from July 24 showcase the rich history and evolving narratives of daytime soaps, reflecting the enduring appeal of these beloved programs.

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Young and Restless Update: What Happened on July 21, 2025?

Major Developments on The Young and the Restless

The Young and the Restless continues to deliver high-stakes drama as characters navigate complex relationships and intense conflicts. On July 21, 2025, the show featured a series of pivotal moments that left viewers on the edge of their seats.

Kyle Confronts Audra in a Heated Encounter

The episode began with a dramatic confrontation between Kyle and Audra in his sleeping car. After sharing a kiss and moving toward the bed, Kyle suddenly pulled away, accusing Audra of manipulating him. He claimed she used Damian’s death to seduce him as part of a larger scheme involving Victor. Audra denied these accusations, insisting her actions were spontaneous and emotional. However, Kyle remained unconvinced, stating he was onto her and planned to inform Victor about her failures.

Nick Faces Arrest and Sharon is Detained

Meanwhile, Nick found himself in a dangerous situation after clashing with Cane and attempting to leave the mountain. His actions led to house arrest, and Sharon was detained alongside him. This development raised questions about the motives behind the authorities’ decisions and whether Nick was being unfairly targeted.

Billy's Breakdown with Jack

In another significant moment, Billy’s business relationship with Jack reached a breaking point. Their conversation in the garden near the maze revealed deep-seated tensions. Jack expressed concern over Billy’s pursuit of Chancellor and his decision to hand over control to Sally without consultation. Billy admitted his ambition to reclaim the company, citing unresolved issues tied to Jill and Victor. The argument escalated, leading to Billy pulling out of their partnership and planning to find another investor to buy Jack out.

Phyllis and Sharon Debate Cane’s Guilt

In the club car, Phyllis and Sharon discussed Cane’s potential guilt in Damian’s murder. Phyllis defended Cane, while Sharon and Nick remained skeptical. When Nick joined them, he revealed that surveillance footage from Cane’s property had been erased, which he saw as evidence of Cane’s guilt. Phyllis countered that someone else might be framing Cane. Frustrated, Nick decided to leave the mountain to speak directly with authorities.

Sharon Joins Nick and Both Are Detained

Sharon followed Nick to his sleeping car and insisted on joining him. As they prepared to leave, Carter and a guard arrived, announcing that Nick was under house arrest due to perceived threats against Cane. When Nick resisted, Carter warned that the situation could escalate. Sharon was also detained for attempting to flee with him.

Billy and Phyllis Form an Alliance

Later, Billy and Phyllis met at the maze bar, where they shared drinks and vented their frustrations. Billy opened up about his broken partnership with Jack, while Phyllis admitted her hopes of working with Cane were threatened. They recognized their similar goals and agreed that getting Cane cleared was essential to moving forward. They decided to join forces to help prove his innocence.

Ongoing Drama and Unresolved Tensions

As the episode concluded, the shifting alliances and escalating suspicions left many questions unanswered. Characters were forced to make difficult decisions amid the growing tension, setting the stage for even more dramatic developments in future episodes. The Young and the Restless continues to captivate audiences with its intricate storytelling and compelling character dynamics.

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Jimmy Fallon Confronts Colbert's Cancellation: "I'm Not Happy With This"

The Late Show’s Cancellation Sparks Outcry and Solidarity

Jimmy Fallon, the host of The Tonight Show, kicked off his Monday broadcast with a humorous yet heartfelt opening. “I am your host,” he said, adding, “Well, at least for tonight.” This remark was a clear nod to the recent announcement that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert would be ending after the 2025-26 season. Fallon expressed his disappointment, stating, “I don’t like what’s going on one bit. These are crazy times.”

Fallon joked about his father calling him to confirm he wasn’t a “Kimmel guy,” highlighting how widespread the news had become. He noted that everyone seemed to be talking about CBS’ decision to end the long-running late-night show. The announcement came as a shock to many in the entertainment industry, especially those who had followed the program since its inception in 1993.

A Historic End to a Beloved Show

In a joint statement from Paramount co-CEO George Cheeks, CBS Entertainment head Amy Reisenbach, and CBS Studios president David Stapf, it was confirmed that The Late Show With Stephen Colbert will conclude in May 2026. The statement emphasized that Stephen Colbert is considered irreplaceable and that the show’s legacy will be remembered among the greats of late-night television.

The decision to cancel the show comes amid significant changes within Paramount Global, the parent company of CBS. The company is currently working towards a merger with Skydance, and it has also recently settled a lawsuit involving Donald Trump. Colbert had previously criticized the situation, which added to the tension surrounding the cancellation.

Financial Motives or Political Pressure?

Paramount and CBS assured the public that the decision was purely financial and not related to the show’s performance or content. However, many in the media and entertainment industry have raised concerns about the timing of the cancellation, especially given the ongoing political climate. Some believe that the move may be influenced by external pressures rather than business decisions alone.

Fallon addressed the potential impact of the cancellation during his monologue, joking that CBS could lose millions of viewers and even thousands of viewers on Paramount+. He praised Colbert for his decade-long contributions, noting his sharp wit and numerous Emmy Awards. Fallon also shared his own surprise at the news, saying, “I’m just as shocked as everyone. Stephen is one of the sharpest, funniest hosts to ever do it.”

A Wave of Support for Colbert

Fallon was among a group of celebrities who showed support for Colbert during a Coldplay kiss cam parody skit on his show. Guests included Andy Cohen, Anderson Cooper, Adam Sandler, Christopher McDonald, John Oliver, Seth Meyers, and Jon Stewart. Their presence highlighted the deep respect and admiration for Colbert’s work in the late-night space.

Colbert himself addressed the cancellation in his Monday night episode, vowing to speak openly about his feelings. He also mentioned the reaction from former President Donald Trump, who took to social media to express his opinion. Trump wrote, “I absolutely love that Colbert got fired.” He criticized Colbert’s talent and even suggested that Jimmy Kimmel might be next, claiming that Greg Gutfeld is better than all of them combined.

Union Condemns the Decision

The Writers Guild of America, which represents the writers of The Late Show, called for an investigation into Paramount’s decision. They argued that while cancellations are common in the entertainment industry, terminating a show due to political pressure is dangerous and unacceptable in a democratic society. The union pointed to the attacks on free press by Trump, including lawsuits against CBS and ABC, as well as efforts to defund PBS and NPR.

A New Chapter for Late-Night Television

With The Late Show coming to an end, the late-night landscape is set for a major shift. Fans of the program are left wondering what the future holds for the genre and whether new voices will emerge to fill the void. For now, the outpouring of support from colleagues and fans alike suggests that Stephen Colbert’s legacy will continue to resonate in the world of television.

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Five Prospective MasterChef Hosts – Why Nigella Stands Out

The Struggles of MasterChef and the Search for New Hosts

MasterChef, once a beloved staple on British television, is currently facing one of its most challenging periods. Over the past few weeks, the show has found itself in a precarious situation, much like a ship that has hit an iceberg. This is not unusual for long-running programs, but the circumstances surrounding this particular crisis have been particularly intense.

The BBC’s popular cookery series lost two of its most recognizable faces. Greg Wallace, the show's former presenter, was removed from his role after the network upheld complaints regarding allegations of sexual harassment. His co-presenter, John Torode, also left the show following accusations of using a racially offensive term. As a result, MasterChef now finds itself without any hosts, a situation that is hard to imagine for a program that relies heavily on its presenters to guide the audience through each episode.

Despite the challenges, the BBC is in a strong position when it comes to finding replacements. Television is filled with individuals who can cook, talk about food, or judge culinary efforts while enjoying them. Ideally, the new hosts would be able to do all three. However, finding truly skilled and charismatic presenters is no easy task, especially with the upcoming series expected to face heightened scrutiny.

Potential Candidates for Replacement

Several names have been suggested as potential replacements for the absent hosts. Each brings a unique set of qualities that could help revitalize the show.

Tom Kerridge

Tom Kerridge, a well-known chef and television personality, is seen as a strong contender. At 51, he has extensive experience in the culinary world, having worked on television for years. His gruff yet approachable demeanor makes him a natural fit for a show like MasterChef. He is known for his refined palate and ability to command a kitchen, which could help maintain the show’s high standards.

Big Zuu

Big Zuu is another name that has been floated as a possible replacement. With a style that appeals to younger audiences, he could bring a fresh energy to the show. However, his larger-than-life personality may be too much for a format that traditionally leans towards more conventional hosting styles. That said, if given the opportunity, he could make the show his own.

Grace Dent

Grace Dent, a respected food critic, has already been brought in as a temporary replacement for the celebrity version of MasterChef. Her sharp wit and ability to engage with both contestants and viewers make her a solid choice. However, some believe that a more dramatic change might be necessary to fully restore the show’s reputation.

Nadiya Hussain

Nadiya Hussain, a former winner of The Great British Bake Off, is known for her warm and empathetic approach. Her personal journey, including her openness about anxiety, has made her a relatable and inspiring figure. While she may not be the first choice for a permanent role, her understanding of the contestant experience could add depth to the show.

Nigella Lawson

Nigella Lawson is another familiar face who could bring a lot to the table. Known for her charisma and ability to elevate food on screen, she has a unique way of making cooking feel both accessible and luxurious. Her presence could add a sense of gravitas to the show, potentially helping it regain its former glory.

Each of these candidates offers a different perspective and set of skills. The challenge for the BBC will be to find the right balance between familiarity and innovation, ensuring that the show continues to captivate its audience while addressing the recent challenges it has faced.

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