The abrupt end of The Chew in 2018 left many fans heartbroken. Once a staple of ABC’s daytime lineup, the show combined food, lifestyle, and heartfelt conversation in a way that resonated with millions. At its peak, it wasn’t just a cooking show — it was a daily escape, a place where audiences gathered to laugh, learn, and feel at home. Nearly six years after its cancellation, fans continue to wonder: Will they bring back The Chew?
In this comprehensive look at the future of The Chew, we’ll explore the reasons behind its cancellation, the legacy it left behind, the current media landscape, and whether a revival is feasible — or even likely. From network decisions to cultural shifts in viewership, no stone will be left unturned.
The Rise and Fall of The Chew
The Birth of a Daytime Phenomenon
Launched in 2011, The Chew premiered as a fresh alternative to the traditional talk and game shows that dominated daytime television. Hosted by a dynamic panel of food and lifestyle experts, the show centered around themes like cooking, entertaining, health, and food trends. The original hosts included Carla Hall, Michael Symon, Clinton Kelly, Daphne Oz, and Mario Batali — a diverse team of professionals with expertise in culinary arts, fashion, and wellness.
With a studio set designed to feel like a warm kitchen, the show emphasized conversation and connection. Episodes typically featured cooking demos, audience interaction, product giveaways, and timely topics ranging from holiday recipes to dietary concerns. It struck a balance between educational content and entertainment, making it appealing to a wide demographic.
Peak Popularity and Critical Reception
At its height, The Chew drew over 2 million viewers per episode and earned multiple Daytime Emmy nominations, winning several for its culinary programming. Critics praised the show for its warmth, authenticity, and inclusive tone. Food lovers particularly appreciated the emphasis on practical cooking, while lifestyle enthusiasts enjoyed segments on wellness, parenting, and home decor.
The chemistry between the hosts was undeniable. Their off-the-cuff jokes, personal anecdotes, and genuine camaraderie helped viewers form emotional attachments. For nearly seven years, The Chew remained a reliable presence on ABC’s schedule, often outperforming competitors in its time slot.
The Fall from Grace: What Led to the Cancellation?
Despite its popularity, The Chew was canceled in 2018. The decision stemmed from a mix of internal and external factors, the most notable being controversy surrounding co-host Mario Batali.
In December 2017, multiple women accused Batali of sexual misconduct, leading to widespread public backlash. ABC swiftly distanced itself from him, and he was immediately removed from the show. While the remaining hosts attempted to keep The Chew afloat with guest appearances and temporary co-hosts, the damage was done.
Audiences began to wane, and advertisers grew concerned. At the same time, ABC was undergoing strategic changes in its daytime programming. The network decided to replace The Chew with GMA3: Strahan, Sara & Keke, a more news-focused talk show aiming to shift the tone toward current events and social issues.
The final episode aired on June 28, 2018.
Could The Chew Make a Comeback?
Assessing the Feasibility of a Revival
Revivals have become increasingly common in the entertainment industry — from Full House to Quantum Leap — and fans often wonder if canceled shows can resurrect. In the case of The Chew, several factors influence whether a revival is feasible.
First, there’s the issue of legal and reputational risk. Any revival would require a careful distance from Mario Batali and potentially other figures associated with past controversies. Reuniting the core cast — especially Carla Hall, Michael Symon, and Clinton Kelly — could reignite audience interest, but contractual availability and personal preferences must be considered.
Second, the media landscape has shifted dramatically since 2018. Linear TV viewership has declined, and streaming platforms now drive content demand. Traditional daytime talk formats are competing with bite-sized content on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. For The Chew to return, it might need a format refresh to accommodate modern tastes.
Public Demand and Online Petitions
Fan sentiment remains one of the strongest indicators of potential revival. Since its cancellation, The Chew has maintained a dedicated fanbase. Online petitions calling for its return have gathered tens of thousands of signatures. Social media communities, Facebook groups, and YouTube compilations of classic episodes continue to thrive.
Audiences often cite the show’s warmth and authenticity as key reasons they miss it. In an era where polished, algorithm-driven content dominates social feeds, the organic vibe of The Chew has become a nostalgic beacon.
The presence of fan-driven momentum is undeniable. However, public demand alone rarely drives network decisions unless it translates into measurable ratings or advertising appeal.
Financial and Production Considerations
Producing a daily one-hour show like The Chew is expensive. Costs include studio space, crew, set design, and talent contracts. ABC would need to weigh the budgetary implications of reviving the show against projected ratings and advertising revenue.
In recent years, daytime TV has seen tighter budgets and a pivot toward lower-cost formats like news panels and reality segments. Shows such as The View and Today with Hoda & Jenna dominate ratings, but many newer attempts at lifestyle programming have struggled to gain traction.
A revival of The Chew would likely require a partnership with a streaming service or cable network to offset costs. Platforms like Hulu, Food Network, or even Discovery+ could offer new distribution models that make the show more financially viable in a fragmented media market.
Possible Avenues for a Return
Streaming-First Revival
One of the most plausible paths for The Chew’s return is a streaming revamp. Platforms like Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Prime have ample culinary content but lack the blend of cooking and casual conversation that defined The Chew.
A 10-episode limited series focusing on holiday cooking, comfort food, or healthy eating could test the water. A digital format would allow for greater creative freedom — shorter episodes, interactive elements, or even live Q&A sessions.
For example:
- Hulu could integrate the show into its existing daytime lineup, possibly pairing it with Good Morning America digital content.
- Discovery+, already home to Food Network, might rebrand a version of the show as a premium lifestyle experience.
- YouTube Premium or Facebook Watch could host a stripped-down version targeting younger demographics through short-form video integration.
TV Network Syndication or Cable Reboot
Another path forward could involve syndication or a cable reboot. The Food Network, in particular, has aired shows with similar formats, such as Barefoot Contessa and Giada at Home. A cable version of The Chew could shift focus from daily talk to themed episodes, like “Cooking with the Original Cast” or “Chew Classics Remade.”
This model carries less financial risk than a daily network show and could attract a niche yet loyal audience. Plus, reruns of old episodes still air on various lifestyle channels, showing that there’s ongoing interest in the core content.
Podcast or Digital Companion Series
If a full-scale TV revival isn’t feasible, key members of the original cast could reunite for a companion project. A podcast titled The Chew Reunited or Kitchen Table Talks would allow hosts like Carla Hall and Clinton Kelly to reconnect with fans through intimate, conversational storytelling.
Such a podcast could:
- Highlight favorite recipes and behind-the-scenes moments from the show.
- Feature guest appearances by chefs, nutritionists, and former crew members.
- Encourage listener-submitted cooking questions and family food traditions.
This format would be cost-effective and could eventually serve as a pilot for a larger multimedia project.
The Legacy of The Chew
Influence on Culinary Television
The Chew didn’t just entertain — it changed how audiences interact with food on television. It helped normalize everyday cooking, challenged food elitism, and celebrated diverse cuisines. The show regularly featured international dishes, plant-based meals, and budget-friendly recipes, making cooking feel accessible.
Its blend of food, lifestyle, and conversation paved the way for shows like Gordon Ramsay’s Home Cooking and segments on networks like OWN and CBS. While not a direct successor, the influence of The Chew can be seen in the conversational tone and audience inclusivity of modern food programming.
Empowering Home Cooks
Before TikTok and Instagram Reels made 60-second cooking videos viral, The Chew was empowering home cooks with practical skills. The show demystified techniques like sautéing, braising, and meal planning. It also addressed common concerns — dairy-free swaps, portion control, and kitchen hacks for busy families.
In an era of highly-produced, gourmet-focused food media, The Chew stood out for its emphasis on real-life cooking — mistakes, messes, and all. This authenticity fostered deeper viewer trust.
Impact on Its Hosts
The show significantly boosted the careers of its hosts. Carla Hall, in particular, became a household name thanks to her charm and culinary expertise. She’s since authored cookbooks, appeared on Holiday Baking Championship, and launched her own food brand.
Michael Symon expanded his restaurant empire and continued hosting shows on Food Network. Daphne Oz transitioned into wellness and medical commentary, while Clinton Kelly found success in fashion media and public speaking.
Even after the show ended, the bond between the cast endured. They’ve participated in joint interviews, charity events, and social media tributes, hinting at their deep respect for the show’s legacy.
Current Daytime TV Trends: Is There a Vacuum?
The Shift Toward News and Drama
Modern daytime programming has moved away from lifestyle content toward news-driven talk and dramatic talk shows like Dr. Phil and Judge Judy spin-offs. Even ABC’s replacement for The Chew, GMA3, has evolved into a more hard-hitting, socially conscious format.
However, this shift has left a gap in feel-good, food-centric entertainment. The pandemic heightened interest in home cooking and mental well-being. According to Nielsen, food-related content saw a 20% rise in viewership between 2020 and 2022. Cooking shows now attract both young adults and older demographics seeking comfort and routine.
The Rise of Food Influencers
Today’s food content is increasingly decentralized. Influencers on platforms like YouTube and TikTok dominate with quick, engaging videos. Figures like Joshua Weissman, Babish Culinary Universe, and Nisha Vora (The Vegan Richa) have millions of followers.
These creators emphasize entertainment value over traditional instruction. A revived The Chew, with its talk-show format, could bridge the gap between high-production culinary videos and authentic, conversational content.
Network Appetite for Nostalgia?
Recent years have shown networks capitalizing on nostalgia. Revivals of That ’90s Show, Bel-Air (a reimagining of The Fresh Prince), and even Full House’s Fuller House prove that audiences welcome old favorites in new formats.
ABC has not been immune to this trend, having brought back specials or limited series tied to legacy properties. While no official word has come from ABC about reviving The Chew, the door hasn’t been closed either.
What a Revived Chew Could Look Like
Modern Updates to Format and Themes
A modern The Chew would need to evolve. Possible updates include:
- Shorter episodes (22–30 minutes) optimized for streaming and on-demand viewing.
- Diversity and inclusivity at the forefront, featuring chefs from different cultural backgrounds and guests with varied dietary needs.
- Interactive elements, such as live polls, virtual cooking classes, or viewer-submitted recipes.
- Focus on sustainability, including plant-based cooking, food waste reduction, and eco-friendly kitchenware.
Potential New Hosts or Format Changes
While a full original cast reunion would be ideal, scheduling and priorities may prevent that. A new iteration could include:
| Host Type | Potential Candidates | Role in Revival |
|---|---|---|
| Main Chef | Carla Hall, Michael Symon (returning or guest) | Lead cooking segments with expertise |
| Lifestyle Expert | Former cast or new personality | Manage wellness, home, and parenting topics |
| Comedy/Charm Anchor | Up-and-coming food personalities | Keep the conversational tone light and fun |
| Streaming Host | Influencer collaborator (e.g., a TikTok chef) | Bridge generational and platform gaps |
This hybrid cast model would honor the show’s roots while appealing to a broader, updated audience.
Multiplatform Distribution Strategy
Instead of relying solely on broadcast TV, a revived The Chew could adopt a multiplatform strategy:
1. Linear TV or Cable Airings
A weekly prime-time slot to draw traditional viewers.
2. Streaming Availability
Episodes released on Hulu or Discovery+ within 24 hours of airing.
3. Digital Clips and Shorts
Bite-sized segments distributed via YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and TikTok.
4. Live Events and Merchandising
Host live cooking classes, sell branded cookware, or launch a recipe app tied to the show.
The Final Verdict: Will They Bring Back The Chew?
As of now, there is no official announcement from ABC or any network indicating a revival of The Chew. However, the possibility remains alive — albeit slim — due to sustained fan interest, evolving media models, and the ongoing demand for comforting, food-centered content.
While the controversy surrounding its departure still casts a shadow, a reimagined version focused on positivity, inclusivity, and innovation could overcome those hurdles. The key lies in finding the right platform, the right format, and the right team to carry the torch.
A full-scale return to ABC’s daytime lineup seems unlikely without significant ratings justification. But a limited-run streaming series or digital reboot? That’s entirely possible.
Fans can continue to signal their interest by supporting the original hosts’ current projects, sharing classic episodes online, and voicing their hopes to networks.
In the end, The Chew was more than a cooking show — it was a community. And communities don’t disappear. They evolve, endure, and sometimes, they make a comeback.
Whether on TV, online, or simply in the memories of those who gathered around their screens each afternoon, The Chew lives on. And while we wait, we can still fire up the oven, throw together a favorite recipe, and toast to the joy it once brought — and may bring again.
Why was The Chew cancelled in 2018?
The Chew was cancelled by ABC in 2018 primarily due to declining ratings and shifting network priorities. Over the years, daytime television viewing habits changed significantly, with more audiences moving toward digital platforms and streaming content. This shift led networks to reassess the cost-effectiveness of long-form, studio-based talk shows. Despite its initial popularity and loyal fan base, The Chew struggled to maintain consistent viewership, especially among key demographics favored by advertisers.
Additionally, on-set controversies and challenges in maintaining cast stability contributed to the show’s decline. The departure of original co-hosts and personal issues faced by several members of the cast created gaps in the show’s dynamic chemistry, which many viewers had come to appreciate. Combined with increasing competition from other lifestyle and food-focused programming, ABC ultimately decided to cancel The Chew to make room for new daytime formats that aligned better with evolving audience preferences and corporate strategies.
Have there been any official announcements about reviving The Chew?
As of now, there have been no official announcements from ABC, Disney, or any of the former co-hosts indicating a revival of The Chew. Despite periodic speculation and fan-driven campaigns, none of the major networks or streaming platforms have confirmed plans to bring the show back. The absence of credible news sources or press releases suggests that any talk of a return remains in the realm of rumor and hopeful fan discussions rather than concrete development.
That said, individual cast members have occasionally hinted at the possibility of collaboration on future projects, sometimes referencing their shared chemistry. However, these comments are typically made in interviews about their current endeavors and not as formal indications of a relaunch. Unless an official statement is made by the network or production team, the likelihood of an immediate revival appears low.
What made The Chew different from other daytime talk shows?
The Chew stood out in the crowded daytime television landscape by focusing specifically on food, lifestyle, and pop culture through a conversational, panel-based format. Unlike traditional talk shows that centered on celebrity interviews or relationship advice, The Chew combined cooking demonstrations, food trivia, and lifestyle tips with the warmth and humor of its hosts. This unique blend attracted food enthusiasts and home cooks who appreciated both entertainment and practical content.
Another distinguishing factor was the show’s emphasis on real-time interaction and camaraderie among its co-hosts. Audiences felt like they were part of a family-style meal conversation, with each host bringing distinct expertise—ranging from culinary techniques (Mario Batali, despite later controversy) to wine pairings and emotional storytelling (Carla Hall, Clinton Kelly). This authenticity and warmth fostered a strong connection with viewers, solidifying its place as a beloved alternative to more conventional daytime fare.
Could The Chew make a comeback on a streaming platform?
The possibility of The Chew returning on a streaming platform cannot be ruled out, given the trend of reviving classic television formats for on-demand audiences. Platforms like Hulu, Netflix, and Peacock have shown interest in lifestyle and food programming, which aligns well with The Chew’s core themes. A digital revival could benefit from flexible scheduling, niche targeting, and deeper engagement with fans who have missed the show since its cancellation.
However, any successful return would require resolving legal and logistical issues, especially concerning former cast members and licensing. Notably, Mario Batali’s departure due to misconduct allegations adds complexity, as rebranding without him—or addressing the controversy—would be essential. Even if the remaining co-hosts were willing to reunite, a streaming revival would depend on substantial interest from both the public and investors, as well as a compelling new format that speaks to today’s digital-savvy viewers.
What have the former co-hosts of The Chew been doing since the show ended?
Since The Chew’s cancellation, the former co-hosts have pursued diverse individual careers across television, publishing, and entrepreneurship. Carla Hall has remained highly visible, hosting shows on Food Network, publishing cookbooks, and lending her voice to various media projects, emphasizing comfort food and Southern cuisine. Clinton Kelly transitioned into podcasting and writing, co-hosting the “Let’s Get Real” podcast and continuing his work in fashion and lifestyle media.
Daphne Brogdon has focused on digital content and wellness, sharing recipes and personal stories through her blog and social media, while Michael Symon continues his extensive work on Food Network and Iron Chef battles. Though they no longer share a daily platform, each co-host has maintained a public presence, often referencing their time on The Chew fondly. Their continued success in related fields keeps the show’s legacy alive and fuels speculation about future collaborations.
What do fans want to see if The Chew returns?
Fans of The Chew consistently express a desire for a return to the show’s original format—a warm, food-centered conversation with a mix of cooking segments, humor, and lifestyle topics. Many long-time viewers miss the unique chemistry among the hosts and the relaxed, family-style vibe that set the show apart from more rigidly structured talk programs. They also hope for practical segments like budget-friendly recipes, kitchen tips, and thematic cooking challenges that were fan favorites.
Additionally, fans are calling for modern updates to reflect current trends, such as plant-based cooking, food sustainability, and diverse culinary traditions. There’s also a strong sentiment that any revival should honor the show’s legacy while carefully addressing the absence of Mario Batali in a respectful and transparent way. Ultimately, audiences want authenticity, inclusivity, and the joyful energy that once made The Chew a comforting part of their daily routine.
How has social media influenced calls to bring back The Chew?
Social media has played a crucial role in sustaining The Chew’s popularity long after its cancellation, serving as a hub for fan nostalgia and campaign efforts. Dedicated Facebook groups, Twitter hashtags, and Instagram pages regularly share clips, recipes, and memories from the show, keeping the conversation alive. These online communities have organized digital petitions and tag campaigns directed at ABC and former hosts, hoping to demonstrate continued demand.
Moreover, social media allows former co-hosts to engage directly with fans, many of whom use these platforms to express their longing for the show’s return. Public comments and viral posts sometimes attract media attention, keeping the possibility of a revival in the public eye. While not a guarantee of renewal, this sustained online presence proves that The Chew still holds cultural and emotional significance for a dedicated audience, making it a potentially viable candidate for a comeback if circumstances align.