Fans Are Reeling As Padma Lakshmi Gives A Heartbreaking Update About "Top Chef"

Top Chef fans across the country were left in utter shock today when Padma Lakshmi announced that she would be leaving the cooking-competition show after 17 years and 19 seasons. Lakshmi revealed the news in a bittersweet note shared on her social media channels.

"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 have been part of building such a successful show and of the impact it has had in the worlds of television and food," she wrote.

As for why she's leaving, she added, "I feel it's time to move on and need to make space for Taste the Nation, my books and other creative pursuits."

The television host and author's posts have been bombarded with comments from supporters and a few celebrity friends, including Andy Cohen and Jesse Tyler Ferguson.

"End of an era and an incredible run. You were such an amazing partner and a BRILLIANT host. I have such great memories of our TC days," Andy Cohen wrote in an Instagram comment.

"Love you Padma! I'm so glad that your show brought us together as friends," Jesse Tyler Ferguson added.

Although a number of fans are likely still too stunned to even type, plenty of them provided kind words for Lakshmi as she continues on to her next journey.

"Thanks for 17 stellar years! We are glad you got to pack your knives and go on your own terms. Looking forward to more wonderful creative endeavors from you, Padma!" an Instagram user commented.

"I honestly couldn’t imagine #topchef without you hosting... I’m enjoying #TastetheNation on @hulu. Onward and upwards @padmalakshmi," another person wrote.

The words of praise continued on Twitter, where fans also expressed their appreciation for the beloved host.

A NBCUniversal spokesperson told PEOPLE: “Padma Lakshmi leaves behind an incredible legacy on Bravo’s Top Chef. Her impact on the Emmy, James Beard and Critics’ Choice Award-winning series is undeniable. We are grateful to Padma for being a consummate host, judge and executive producer, and for bringing her ingenuity and exceptional palate to each episode where she ate every bite of food on the series for over 17 years and 19 seasons. She will always be part of the Top Chef and the NBCUniversal family and has a seat at the judges’ table anytime.”

There has been no announcement about Lakshmi's replacement.

You Might Also Like

• How to Get Great Skin in Your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s, and Beyond

• 70+ Birthday Wishes for Your Best Friend on Their Special Day

• The Best Foundations of All Time