Valerie Bertinelli Dropped from 'Kids Baking Championship' after 12 Seasons – Details

Valerie Bertinelli, a recipient of two Golden Globe awards, has revealed that she will not return as a host and judge on the Food Network competition program "Kids Baking Championship." She expressed that this decision has deeply hurt her feelings.

In an Instagram video posted on January 20, Valerie Bertinelli, 63, announced that she won't return to Food Network's "Kids Baking Championship." She shared that she received confirmation of her departure the previous night but delayed facing the news due to the emotional impact, stating, "I wanted to sleep on it because it really hurt my feelings, and I know it's not supposed to."

Despite acknowledging the logical aspect of business-related budget cuts, she expressed deep emotional hurt at not being asked back for the show. The 12th season of the program is currently airing, with no official renewal announcement from the network.

Bertinelli, hosting alongside Duff Goldman since the show's 2015 debut, explained her emotional reaction, revealing that Season 12 was filmed in the challenging summer of 2022, which she referred to as her "apex year of hell."

"I was going through it and pretending everything was just fine because that's what you do. And without sounding like a drama queen, the show saved my life," expressed Bertinelli.

In May 2022, Bertinelli formally initiated divorce proceedings with her ex-husband, Tom Vitale. The divorce was finalized in November 2022. The host of "Valerie's Home Cooking" conveyed the news in a Twitter video on November 22 while en route to visit her son, Wolfgang Van Halen.

She jubilantly shared, "The papers were all signed. They're about to be filed...On 11/22/22, I am officially divorced. Happily divorced. God, finally. It's finally over."

Bertinelli described the show as a "flotation device" and expressed gratitude to her fellow host, Goldman. She also extended appreciation to the hardworking cast and crew members, including producers, camera, sound, art, and kitchen teams. The award-winning actress considers herself fortunate to witness the growth of the young bakers on the show.

Concluding her video, the two-time Golden Globe winner offered advice to future contestants, emphasizing self-belief and resilience in the face of challenges. Despite not being present, Bertinelli assured contestants that she would be with them in spirit, encouraging them to remember their worth and to keep baking.

The news has saddened many of Bertinelli's fans and followers, including Khloe Kardashian, who expressed, "Wait!!! What!!!!! I need to sign a petition. I looooove this show and watch it daily...I love you and Duff together, and it will be hard to imagine it without you. The way you are with the children is magical. Your understanding and advice to them is key...This does suck and I understand why your feelings are hurt. 😔"

"We miss you on the show. I was curious as to what [happened]. Now I know. I want Valerie back!!" wrote another fan. "OH THIS IS SICK AND TWISTED. you and duff are the dream team! UGH this breaks my heart!!!! [sic]" divulged yet another user.