Flay set to depart Food Network after 27 years

On Food Network, the roles have reversed and it’s the chef that’s on the chopping block.

After nearly three decades with Food

Network, renowned chef Bobby Flay and the network have agreed to part ways after contract negotiations between the two parties failed.

Flay’s three-year contract concludes at the end of the year.

Representatives from Flay’s management team at WME did not comment on the news, saying that it is their policy not to address ongoing negotiations. Despite WME’s claims of negotiations still taking place, Food Network sources told Variety that the Discovery-owned cable channel has made its decision and won’t be able to agree on the financial terms.

Flay made his first appearance on Food Network in 1994 when it had been on TV for less than a year.

In his time there, Flay has hosted a multitude of programming, including “Beat Bobby Flay” and “Brunch at Bobby’s.” He also made regular appearances on popular shows like “Chopped,” “Iron Chef America,” “Worst Cooks in America” and “The Next Food Network Star.”

In 2015, Flay became the first TV chef to have a star placed on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He also owns many restaurants around the country in addition to writing over a dozen cookbooks.