Padma Lakshmi QUITS Top Chef: Host exits hit show after 17 years

Padma Lakshmi is stepping down from Top Chef after 19 seasons as a presenter.

The star, 52, announced her departure on Instagram on Friday, where she revealed her decision stemmed from a desire to move on to “other creative pursuits” after 17 years on the Bravo show.

She wrote, “After much soul searching I have made the difficult decision to leave Top Chef. Having completed a glorious 20th season as host and executive producer, I am extremely proud to be a part of building such a successful show and the impact it has had in the world of television and food.”

“After 17 years, many of the cast and crew are like family to me and I will miss working with them very much. I feel it’s time to move on and make room for Taste the Nation, my books and other creative pursuits.

“I am extremely grateful to all of you for so many years of love and support. Sincerely, Padma.’

Goodbye: Padma Lakshmi has left Top Chef after 19 seasons as host. The star, 52, announced her departure on Instagram on Friday (pictured with Sam Bompas)

Farewell: The star, 52, announced her departure on Instagram on Friday, where she revealed her decision stemmed from a desire to move on to ‘other creative pursuits’ after 17 years on the Bravo show

Top Chef started in 2006 and was hosted by Katie Lee Joel. Lakshmi started hosting the show in season 2.

She has scored four Emmy nominations for Outstanding Reality Show Host and 10 Emmy nominations for Outstanding Competition Program as producer of the show.

Padma shares 13-year-old daughter Krishna Thea with venture capitalist Adam Dell, brother of computer mogul Michael Dell.

She was married to writer Salman Rushdie from 2004 to 2007.