Notes From the Road ... Hawaii
By Anthony Bourdain
I was sitting poolside in Waikiki, after a hard days shoot, taking a brief break from my club sandwich and boat drink to check on my e-mail. Michael Ruhlman had cut and pasted something for me and sent it along for my "immediate attention". It indicated under "subject" that it had originated from the Food Network and it looked like a press release, so I assumed it would be of about as much interest to me as Guy Fieri's hair styling tips or Carrot Top's breakfast preferences. But I read a few lines and immediately almost spit up my Mai Tai:
"Food Network will reprise original series 'A Cook's Tour' this December, it was announced today by Bob Tuschman, Senior Vice President, Programming and Production for Food Network. The series, featuring outspoken chef Anthony Bourdain, returns to Food Network with a Christmas Day Marathon, airing four back-to-back episodes on Tuesday, December 25th from 9-11pm ET/PT. The series will then join the primetime lineup in its new timeslot on Tuesday, January 8th at 10:30pm ET/PT. "Anthony Bourdain is a passionate foodie who has amazing stories to share as he takes viewers on a unique tour of our planet" said Tuschman. We look forward to introducing new viewers to this memorable Food Network series and know they will enjoy Anthony's unique voice and unforgettable adventures."
"Why? Why that old show? And why now?"
I was sitting poolside in Waikiki, after a hard days shoot, taking a brief break from my club sandwich and boat drink to check on my e-mail. Michael Ruhlman had cut and pasted something for me and sent it along for my "immediate attention". It indicated under "subject" that it had originated from the Food Network and it looked like a press release, so I assumed it would be of about as much interest to me as Guy Fieri's hair styling tips or Carrot Top's breakfast preferences. But I read a few lines and immediately almost spit up my Mai Tai:
"Food Network will reprise original series 'A Cook's Tour' this December, it was announced today by Bob Tuschman, Senior Vice President, Programming and Production for Food Network. The series, featuring outspoken chef Anthony Bourdain, returns to Food Network with a Christmas Day Marathon, airing four back-to-back episodes on Tuesday, December 25th from 9-11pm ET/PT. The series will then join the primetime lineup in its new timeslot on Tuesday, January 8th at 10:30pm ET/PT. "Anthony Bourdain is a passionate foodie who has amazing stories to share as he takes viewers on a unique tour of our planet" said Tuschman. We look forward to introducing new viewers to this memorable Food Network series and know they will enjoy Anthony's unique voice and unforgettable adventures."
"Why? Why that old show? And why now?"
I howled out loud in the general direction of the sea. A few small
children by the kiddie pool began to cry - frightened perhaps, by my
primal outburst. Why - after all these years - would they put my old
episodes back on the air? The damn things were filmed in 2000 and
2001!! They have nothing newer, or fresher or better - after all that
time - than my first, stumbling, nascent attempts at making travel/food
television? They don't have any material from anyone else - like from
someone who doesn't make constant rude and obscene suggestions about
their stable of "stars?" Surely they haven't reached so far down the
bottom of the archives as to want ME back?!
This was like being unexpectedly groped and publicly slipped the tongue by the ugliest girl at the prom. You're flattered by the attention - but frankly ... embarrassed. And the timing seemed suspicious. As I ordered two more and then a third Mai Tai, paranoia began to set in.
"They're not putting the show back on because they like it. They're trying to destroy me!" I theorized. People will surely comment on the striking - even horrifying - decline in my appearance since those few years ago - and will wonder why they would still watch someone who is clearly dying of some hideous hair whitening, skin puffing, tropical bloating disease. Or maybe they're putting it back on as a deliberate strategy to break off and confuse a segment of potential audience who might otherwise be tuning in to the exciting new season of NO RESERVATIONS (the vastly superior and more expensive series on TRAVEL CHANNEL)! Maybe ... maybe it's vengeance for some of the Rachael Ray cracks. In fact...MAYBE it's part of some secret deal to keep her on the network ... some ultra hush-hush rider to her contract! I've been trying to buy those old shows back for ages - to make DVDs. They've refused to sell, sitting on them year after year. Until now. Coincidence? Or conspiracy?
Or, I pondered, is this an ill considered scheme to buy my silence? Perhaps the reasoning goes that with my old shows running on the network again ( a development which, to be perfectly honest, will be very good for my book sales), I'll shut up - as one chef at a time, the Old Guard of Food Network stars are dragged off to the slaughter house and "disappeared"... that with newly restored vested interest in Food Network's good will, I might be less inclined to make mention of the look of sheer ... terror ... I recognized in Paula Deen's eyes as she laughed and guffawed dutifully on Iron Chef America's holiday sugar challenge. If you watched closely, the mouth moved as ordered. But the eyes ...The EYES. They had seen things. Terrible things. Kruschev had the same expression on his face early in his career - when he had to laugh at the Boss's jokes.
I finished my Hawaii shoot in a state of agitation, dreading the FN promos to come, figuring it'll be like being publicly identified as a Milwaukee Brewer long after having moved to the Yankees.The rest of the week, I rode the wild, North Shore surf at Banzai Pipeline and Sunset (in a jet ski), hovered over boiling magma on the Big Island, was offered every variety of unexpectedly wonderful local food - but my mind was elsewhere.
Finally, back in New York, I opened the New York Times - and reading closely between the lines, got to the heart of the matter:
"All good things come to an end and it was time to do something new'" network pres, Brooke Johnson is quoted as saying - describing the net's inexplicable decision to piss on their biggest star and founding father, Emeril Lagasse by cancelling "Emeril Live". " RIGHT NOW, WE'RE FIGURING OUT WHAT THAT SOMETHING NEW IS," (emphasis mine).
I gotta tell you, by the way; if I were a Scripps stockholder, I wouldn't want to hear my network press talking any shit about "figuring stuff out" I'd want to hear "We KNOW what we're doing." "Floundering around trying a buncha different shit - kind of a scattershot approach. Throw a bunch of stuff at the wall and see what sticks kindofathing" doesn't sound like a business plan I want to invest in. But maybe that's just me.
Watching that very public and very painful process of "figuring out" has provided some pretty hilariously embarrassing viewing over the past year of declining audience share for Food Net( Down 36,000 total day ratings and 15% for its weekend bloc according to the Times). There's last year's Great Hope, Guy Fieri, who reminds me of the "Poochie" character in the classic Simpson's episode where it is decided that Itchy and Scratchy need a "hip, in-your-face, pro-active" new sidekick to bring in a younger demographic. Poochie (and seemingly Guy) is created by committee and an assemblage of compiled stats from focus groups: "Twenty percent more rasta" "needs more surfer" ...Then there's the shockingly offensive nitwit on "Have Fork Will Travel" a comedian (we are assured) who appears to have been hired so that he can travel the world making fun of other people's accents.
There was the gruesome public spectacle of "Next Food Network Star" which Ms. Johnson, in yet another in a series of transparent howlers, suggests is the prototype for "Top Chef". If you missed the scandal, the subsequent show-trial and 'confession' of front running 'Jag' and the last minute switcheroo where 'fired' contestant Amy ended up winning a seemingly botched call-in audience vote, you missed one of the most entertainingly screwed up, colossal clusterfucks ever. The Times article goes on to describe the "way more onerous" new deals being offered the on-air personalities; contracts where the net would grab a piece of book deals, merchandise, licensing and outside activities. Ms. Johnson, sounding not unlike Carlo Gambino, is quoted as responding with, "we like to be in partnership with our talent in a variety of venues." After this blood-chilling remark she adds, "TO MY KNOWLEDGE, the talent is happy with the deals we have with them." This last is notable for two things: First, the lawyerly use of "to my knowledge" which generally means "when you present me with the inevitable evidence to the contrary, at least I can say, I didn't lie." And the unconscious use of the word "talent." As anyone who has ever worked in front of a camera can tell you - when the producers or camera people or crew refer to you as "the talent?" They mean "asshole."
Continuing my research, I found the last of a staggering series of Tourettes-like diplomatic blunders when Johnson responded to Eater.com's question about the new Rachael Ray deal that "Rachael is the quintessential example of the homegrown stars we create at Food Network." Now ... however true it might be that Food Network grew Rachael from a culture in a petri dish, I doubt very much whether the bestselling newly, superpowerful Oprah-charged Ms. Ray would like to think of herself as "created by" anybody - much less Ms. Johnson and her cohorts.
On reflection, I think I'll enjoy being - once again - the turd in the Food Network punchbowl. I shall tune in, for sure. Squeezed between "Follow That Fudge" and "America's Ultimate Deep Fryers," my younger, thinner, darker-haired self will stare back at me, still unknowing, blundering through my first adventures in television, my first, eye opening trips to Asia, Africa and South America. Two short years. The suggestions of dude ranches, tailgate parties, chili cook-offs and barbeque, barbeque, barbeque would begin soon - like a gathering storm. And I would be gone - to toil in happier, more productive fields.
This was like being unexpectedly groped and publicly slipped the tongue by the ugliest girl at the prom. You're flattered by the attention - but frankly ... embarrassed. And the timing seemed suspicious. As I ordered two more and then a third Mai Tai, paranoia began to set in.
"They're not putting the show back on because they like it. They're trying to destroy me!" I theorized. People will surely comment on the striking - even horrifying - decline in my appearance since those few years ago - and will wonder why they would still watch someone who is clearly dying of some hideous hair whitening, skin puffing, tropical bloating disease. Or maybe they're putting it back on as a deliberate strategy to break off and confuse a segment of potential audience who might otherwise be tuning in to the exciting new season of NO RESERVATIONS (the vastly superior and more expensive series on TRAVEL CHANNEL)! Maybe ... maybe it's vengeance for some of the Rachael Ray cracks. In fact...MAYBE it's part of some secret deal to keep her on the network ... some ultra hush-hush rider to her contract! I've been trying to buy those old shows back for ages - to make DVDs. They've refused to sell, sitting on them year after year. Until now. Coincidence? Or conspiracy?
Or, I pondered, is this an ill considered scheme to buy my silence? Perhaps the reasoning goes that with my old shows running on the network again ( a development which, to be perfectly honest, will be very good for my book sales), I'll shut up - as one chef at a time, the Old Guard of Food Network stars are dragged off to the slaughter house and "disappeared"... that with newly restored vested interest in Food Network's good will, I might be less inclined to make mention of the look of sheer ... terror ... I recognized in Paula Deen's eyes as she laughed and guffawed dutifully on Iron Chef America's holiday sugar challenge. If you watched closely, the mouth moved as ordered. But the eyes ...The EYES. They had seen things. Terrible things. Kruschev had the same expression on his face early in his career - when he had to laugh at the Boss's jokes.
I finished my Hawaii shoot in a state of agitation, dreading the FN promos to come, figuring it'll be like being publicly identified as a Milwaukee Brewer long after having moved to the Yankees.The rest of the week, I rode the wild, North Shore surf at Banzai Pipeline and Sunset (in a jet ski), hovered over boiling magma on the Big Island, was offered every variety of unexpectedly wonderful local food - but my mind was elsewhere.
Finally, back in New York, I opened the New York Times - and reading closely between the lines, got to the heart of the matter:
"All good things come to an end and it was time to do something new'" network pres, Brooke Johnson is quoted as saying - describing the net's inexplicable decision to piss on their biggest star and founding father, Emeril Lagasse by cancelling "Emeril Live". " RIGHT NOW, WE'RE FIGURING OUT WHAT THAT SOMETHING NEW IS," (emphasis mine).
I gotta tell you, by the way; if I were a Scripps stockholder, I wouldn't want to hear my network press talking any shit about "figuring stuff out" I'd want to hear "We KNOW what we're doing." "Floundering around trying a buncha different shit - kind of a scattershot approach. Throw a bunch of stuff at the wall and see what sticks kindofathing" doesn't sound like a business plan I want to invest in. But maybe that's just me.
Watching that very public and very painful process of "figuring out" has provided some pretty hilariously embarrassing viewing over the past year of declining audience share for Food Net( Down 36,000 total day ratings and 15% for its weekend bloc according to the Times). There's last year's Great Hope, Guy Fieri, who reminds me of the "Poochie" character in the classic Simpson's episode where it is decided that Itchy and Scratchy need a "hip, in-your-face, pro-active" new sidekick to bring in a younger demographic. Poochie (and seemingly Guy) is created by committee and an assemblage of compiled stats from focus groups: "Twenty percent more rasta" "needs more surfer" ...Then there's the shockingly offensive nitwit on "Have Fork Will Travel" a comedian (we are assured) who appears to have been hired so that he can travel the world making fun of other people's accents.
There was the gruesome public spectacle of "Next Food Network Star" which Ms. Johnson, in yet another in a series of transparent howlers, suggests is the prototype for "Top Chef". If you missed the scandal, the subsequent show-trial and 'confession' of front running 'Jag' and the last minute switcheroo where 'fired' contestant Amy ended up winning a seemingly botched call-in audience vote, you missed one of the most entertainingly screwed up, colossal clusterfucks ever. The Times article goes on to describe the "way more onerous" new deals being offered the on-air personalities; contracts where the net would grab a piece of book deals, merchandise, licensing and outside activities. Ms. Johnson, sounding not unlike Carlo Gambino, is quoted as responding with, "we like to be in partnership with our talent in a variety of venues." After this blood-chilling remark she adds, "TO MY KNOWLEDGE, the talent is happy with the deals we have with them." This last is notable for two things: First, the lawyerly use of "to my knowledge" which generally means "when you present me with the inevitable evidence to the contrary, at least I can say, I didn't lie." And the unconscious use of the word "talent." As anyone who has ever worked in front of a camera can tell you - when the producers or camera people or crew refer to you as "the talent?" They mean "asshole."
Continuing my research, I found the last of a staggering series of Tourettes-like diplomatic blunders when Johnson responded to Eater.com's question about the new Rachael Ray deal that "Rachael is the quintessential example of the homegrown stars we create at Food Network." Now ... however true it might be that Food Network grew Rachael from a culture in a petri dish, I doubt very much whether the bestselling newly, superpowerful Oprah-charged Ms. Ray would like to think of herself as "created by" anybody - much less Ms. Johnson and her cohorts.
On reflection, I think I'll enjoy being - once again - the turd in the Food Network punchbowl. I shall tune in, for sure. Squeezed between "Follow That Fudge" and "America's Ultimate Deep Fryers," my younger, thinner, darker-haired self will stare back at me, still unknowing, blundering through my first adventures in television, my first, eye opening trips to Asia, Africa and South America. Two short years. The suggestions of dude ranches, tailgate parties, chili cook-offs and barbeque, barbeque, barbeque would begin soon - like a gathering storm. And I would be gone - to toil in happier, more productive fields.
Personally, I was thrilled (though perplexed, as you were) to see "A Cook's Tour" back on - my husband and I spent a good part of this holiday vacation (I'm a teacher) watching it as well as the "No Reservations" marathon on New Year's Eve. Since winning some Fox promotion that gave us a trip to NYC to dine at Les Halles, we've since read all your books and watch whenever we happen to catch you on TV.
Now, sounding like a blithering fangirl, I'll simply say that it wasn't my intent to be so simpering, that our dinner at Les Halles has made any steak eaten since seem like stewmeat cube steak and that I hope to catch some new episodes of whatever show you happen to be working on soon.
I've got my DVR set! I've never seen ACT so I'm looking forward to it, and the new season.
Fact is, they are putting it on for more viewers to watch The Food Network. It's become devastatingly froo froo. Everyone's forced to eat their own cooked food with a smile, and you are so right about the eyes. Their eyes tell it all.
You, however, have this image of rawness, rough honesty, and experience. People want that today. Therefore, A Cook's Tour is back on the air. And you don't in any way look like you are deteriorating. You look handsome as always. This isn't about Rachael Ray; she's fading. It's about ratings, money, and viewers contribute to all that.
Instead of worrying that they are out to get you, look at it like this: They need you to look good.
Tony,
Just wanted to say I LOVE your show, and watch it as often as I can. I think you are quite handsome and have an amazing personality. You are strightforward and seem to speak your mind, which is great.
Keep on rockin and I'll keep on watchin!!
Oh, loved the episode from Peru (my mom's family is from there, and I'm hoping to visit one day and see it all for myself.
Much love from RI (by way of NJ)
Kira
Just as the poster above, i was also excited to see 'a cook's tour' back on.
You on that show, singlehandedly, got me interested in all things food...
You weren't a pretentious p*k who was simply excited to use his best french accent to say 'au gratin'...
And although we are all dying of a skin-cracking, hair-blanching, face-puffing disease called life...i must say you look as nimble and spry as a young meerkat...
I always wondered what Tony thought about that show that blatantly copied our favorite show and concept. I literally cussed the TV screen every time that stupid commercial came on as if I had Tourette's syndrome.
Which begs me to ask... what ever happened to that show..? Wasn't it on Tuesday nights? Oh guy (whose name we don't remember) we hardly knew thee... &$#%$^# nitwit...
I'm glad that "A Cook's Tour" is back on, a bunch of us have been jonesing for that French Laundry episode to appear...
Reading this was the most uplifting part of my day.
F*&^#@! hell.
I saw those Cooks Tour eps, and I was all, "was he dying of the AIDS back then?" You look better all puffy and wrinkled, man. Back then, Rachel Ray couldda taken your ass in a fight. These days, eh, not so much.
Anthony,
I have enjoyed watching your show for the last few years.
You have inspired me in many ways, one being cooking.
Reading your lastest blog, I could not stop laughing.
Can't wait for the new season to begin.
I'm from a small town in Michigan, Chelsea. Just west of Ann Arbor, Wolverine territory.
If ever you are in this area, I would love to show around Ann Arbor and {the blink of an eye}, Chelsea.
We do have the Common Grill, and after all, you did go to Cleveland
Happy New Year
Brenda
Pay us a visit
Seriously, Anthony. They realize that the awesome promos for "No Reservations" are working ... and they're taking a free ride. (Everyone who TiVos your new program will also be putting you on their Wish List ... and bingo! Food Network viewership goes "Pop!")
And for God's sake ... quit whining and take the free publicity. You dork.
Tony, you look better now than you ever have! Don't change a thing! I think TFN is cashing in on your success with the Travel Channel. They're not as stupid as they look. I hope your getting hefty royalties from all this. Anyway, I can't wait to see some of the older shows, especially now since I read your books and got all of the 'behind the scenes' info. Keep up the great work.
My take on your shows' return to the Food Network is, simply, that they are exploiting your body of work to legitimize themselves among the "hip" demographic (of which, I am, clearly not a member). Scripps is first and foremost a business, and the powers that be failed to capitalize on your vision. Perhaps last October, the programmers looked in the vault, blew off a little dust, and realized "oh s**t! We used to have that tall skinny guy on the network!"
This is good news as I enjoy all things "Bourdain"...the food, the travel, the wit, the self-abasement, the books. Pretend the old you is your son and you'll enjoy the reruns more. How about using computer technology to insert a live Rachael Ray into your old episodes of "A Cook's Tour" and the current her could cook with the old you?
I have my DVR set to record it, I've watched and highly enjoyed ACT. Don't want to sound like a goof, but anything Bourdain is better than what's on FN now. Can't wait for the new season of No Reservations! Cheers!
every show i seen was great.
Any chance they're doing this to try and hold onto the rights somehow?
I didn't bother to get cable until 2005, so I missed out on ACT the first time around. I also missed out on the Christmas-day marathon because the Food Network has fallen completely off my radar. But I'll definitely start watching ACT on Tuesday nights.
The Food Network sucks, to be sure, but in my mind more Bourdain is always a good thing, no matter who is showing it.
Aloha Tony!
Your feathers should be SOOOOO fluffed right now. What better compliment could you ask for? The single thought that comes to mind, "they should have let you work your magic YOUR way when they had you!" HA! Paybacks are hell, but don't let that text make you feel like spewing your cocktail, that's alcohol abuse!!
Happy New Year and I can't wait for Monday!
Anothony!
they are simply trying to juice your star power
for all its worth
your a big star no doubt...at least to civilized food loveing individuals.
they know your big, and they want some rateings to fix their crappy network
ahh you know you made it, when people who dont like you..use your image to get ahead..hell i wouldnt even mind seeing you in your own movie! hahaha
I just found this site by seeing if Tony had a fan club LOL I LOVE HIM..... I just watched No Reservations in Korea....Keep up the great job and BTW you look HOT ;)
Anthony....anything Bourdain is welcome. The Cook's Tour reruns are no exception! I will certainly be watching and recording every savory episode. Two of my life-long passions have been food and travel and I remember the first time I saw your show and being immediately and forever hooked. Even though watching a younger Bourdain's adventures is always a treat, please don't be fooled: you're better as time goes by, wrinkles, and all. Welcome back and cheers!
good to see my worst fears werent true meaning you were another of the many old food network stars of the past returning to the network. i noticed they were pimping jamie olivers return hard and hes even going to be on budget iron chef or rather iron chef america ( seriously though that show is so damn sad sugar, pizza dough and hamburger battles?)
im waiting for the inevitable air and water battles to come soon enough or hell maybe they will even go as far as to do a stone battle and take a page from that story about stone soup.
i knew the network was desperate when most of the channels lineup consisted of random 10,000 dollar contest battles nobody has ever heard of or could care less about and even after their once golden boy bobby flay got exposed for the hack he is in his show throwdown ( seriously how do you lose a stickbun battle when you know the opponents recipies ahead of time and you have help)?.
what once was a ggood idea hs basically become a parody of itself though they still have a few watchable shows like good eats and the show with the british guy who looks like a pro wrestler and likes to yell alot that channel is pretty unwatchable.
My fiance bought me one of those Global knives that you rave about in your books and wow, those things are magical! I'm a little afraid I might chop a finger off because I get the urge to cut all fancy like a chef, and I clearly don't have the skill. But I got the knife! I'm convinced it makes my food taste better.
No Reservations is fantastic - I am a vegetarian and your show is the only thing that has EVER actually made it tempting to cross over to the dark side when traveling :)
Food Network? Why? WHY!?
Marry me. Actually, let me take you to my family's home in Mexico for an amazing dinner.
Don't fret.
You're amazing and I hope that you are on TV as long as you can stand it.
They're putting you back on cause your awesome!
I was in Piedras Negras on New Year's eve and I thought about your show that you did there on the Eagle Pass/ Piedras border.
I told all my friends about it that night in a drunken stuper.
Personally, I think you should have gone to the Del Rio/Acuna border.
Acuna has the best hot dogs ever.
Come back!
I made my mother watch an episode of No Reservations and she was hooked.
My mom secretly thinks you're hot, and I'm not gonna lie I do too!
Haha.
You probably really don't read these comments anyway.
So I'm not gonna go on forever.
Cause it's pretty off topic anyway.
-Reagan
Why now, you ask, Bourdain?
Because... if I recall correctly, after this year, FN loses its rights to ACT and they revert back to you?
If so, then, it's their last chance to cash in on ka-ching from advertising revs, as well as to rub it in your face.
Hopefully, one day, you'll see fit to officially release the series.
After all, even if you diss FN, you started there, and it's not as if TC's The Feasty Boys is any better than FN's Boy Meets Grill.
Peace out, and keep up the non-smoking.
I love "A Cook's Tour." I am glad TFN is re-airing the series. This will give new fans an opportunity to see how it all began. I'm glad they are at least linking to your books. "A Cook's Tour" is a great read for anyone who is a fan of this series.
@Andrew Lee: I posted a clip from "The French Laundry Experience": Season 1 episode 18 of "A Cook's Tour" on Tony's FanSpace:
http://www.myspace.com/tonybourdain
I'm sure none of us know what it's like to be in this type of situation, but we all LOVE No Reservations... My wife gave me the first season on DVD for our first anniversary, and we watched every episode, one after another. I watch FN all the time and was surprised to see that they brought ACT back. Rachael Ray makes my skin crawl, with her "sammies" and E V O O, I'm from albany, NY and we didn't like her there either.
I don't know about you, but it's supposed to be about the food, and not the largest damn piece of sugar you can build or a show about cakes that look like bumper cars(does anyone actually eat fondit anyway?)
I guess I'll end this brief rambling tyrade now before I go off on barefoot contessa, or some other pretentious snit.
Peace man, good to hear you quit smoking too!
Why am I suddenly reminded of the time Alice Cooper appeared on The Muppet Show?
We saw promos for the show just a couple of days ago on our flight back from Utah (they were sandwiched between outdated "get a new car for Christmas!" and Nestle cocoa ads). Seems you are part of the "macho lineup" including the Ace of Cakes and some other guy I can't remember . . . . maybe all the testosterone is an attempt to compete with ESPN.
Hey--how about football teams competing in a cake decorating contest for a chance to play in the Sugar Bowl? There's an idea!
naaah, i think you're way hotter now.
Basicaly I stopped watching that channel the day they started running 'Semi-Homemade Cooking' WTF do I want to watch someone who cooks from the back of the box? The only thing worth watching is Ace of Cakes for its creativity, but I will wait for the DVDs.
Basically, from what I can figure, any sober person with an IQ over 70 has mostly stopped watching Food Network and has drifted over to the Travel Channel because of No Reservations. Good Eats is on less and less and has been replaced by non-stop Mark Summers Infomercials. While Ace of Cakes is somewhat interesting (though not exactly food related), there is only so much I can take of the bong-smoking Duff crew. Iron Chef America would be fun (cheap materials or not) if only Bobby Flay didn't do 90% of the episodes. (However, I will watch Flay get his ass kicked on Throw Down as a kind of revenge. That's really all I tune in to see, and I feel cheated if he doesn't lose.) And what the HELL was with the show about the 2 younger guys with a catering business? When I saw the commerical, I thought, "FINALLY! They are going to put something intellegent on about chefs with something to new to say." YIKES, what a disappointment! I couldn't even make it more than 15 minutes into an episode without dozing off.
Basically, I haven't watched Food Network much until I saw that A Cook's Tour episodes were going to be on. (I've wanted to see your first Viet Nam episode for a while now. Hope they show it.) This is about a weak attempt to steal back some market share. I hope you sell a lot of books from it at least.
I watched ACT for the first time the other night. See, I was living in France when it was first broadcast, so I considered it one of the many Things I Missed Out On.
After reading your books and watching No Reservations, I am a fan, so I'm glad to be able to watch these old shows! Bonne Année, bonne santé, Tony.
Boo Hoo, Tony! You're laying poolside in Hawaii and the Food Network is playing your show again (by popular demand). Wow, you have a tough life. :-)
I've been quietly waiting for the Food Network's demise, and the writing is on the proverbial wall now. Once they dumped Mario, the clock started ticking. Now, Emeril. If I were Bobby Flay, I'd be crapping my pants.
Looking forward to new episodes of NR, and completing my home-made DVD collection of Cook's Tour episodes.
Tony,
I saw those episodes on FN. I was happy to see the old episodes again, but I was certainly pissed off about how they were whoring you to promote some stupid new show by that naked guy.
FN is beginning to realize that they are loosing real foodies. Almost all of their shows are geared towards the audience for who cooking (or food) is slightly more work than heating up their TV dinners. I mean, there is hardly any Mario on anymore. Apart from Iron Chef I dont think I can watch any other show. BTW, Iron Chef is also being contaminated by these specials where they hold tag team matches involving RR and Paula Deen.
Anyways real foodies are gravitated towards other shows. They have to realize that and probably redefine themselves.
Yanno what they say, one dog's turd is another dog's meal.
You must try coconut syrup dear Tony.
Look at it just like you said, it will boost your book sales. Your book is better than that show anyway. It was your audition reel for bigger and better things.
Laugh (just like when moms trots out the tape of you in the school play in 5th grade) all the way to the bank and buy that baby a trust fund for college or some Ramones memorabilia.
FN is, well, F-ed. Trying to go lowbrow / mainstream makes sense given the demographics but in reality, the middle-class women who would most benefit from shows that help them become better cooks and/or food as 'entertainment' are so busy working and raising their kids that they don't watch all that much TV anymore. And if they do, it's probably not Food Network. Not that they wouldn't watch the stuff, it's just not high enough on their already overburdened to-do list.
Aspirational cooks / foodies are the ones who will make the time to watch lots of food-related programming - IF it's good enough. It's a smaller market segment, but more dedicated and more willing to spend money with their advertisers. Problem is that networks always want to go for the biggest audience numbers possible. Playing the niche simply isn't as appealing a proposition to the suits in their suite.
If Food Network played their cards right and retooled their operations around being THE source for truly high-quality food information (in all formats - video, web, print, etc) they could create an amazing empire. For example, can you imagine annual Food Network awards that instead of being some insipid paean to their advertisers, were actually an honor that chefs fought to be a part of? Wouldn't that be something?
They have the reach already. They just don't have the vision or the guts.
(cross-posted from ruhlman's blog)
WTF?! Food Network?! Quit Smoking?! My head is about to explode.
Kidding aside, I hope you suck those people dry from residuals.
I also saw the t-shirt on grillbitch.com - pretty cool. I'm gonna get one for my 2 year old girl and watch the nannies freak out at dayschool.
Anthony,
Great work! I enjoy your show and wondering if your planning any trip to North Africa? Andrew's trip to Morroco was great. How about Algeria? Its the couscous birth place. Keep up the good work.
Cheers
Bourdain:
You'll have the last laugh when the ratings in that daypart are the highest they've ever been in the past 5 years. Tusch and Suze will never thank you, but the Scripps board of directors might.
I say you send FN a semi-homemade fruit basket (with extra vodka and a few extra bras) in appreciation. Make 'em wonder what you're up to.
Well I'll be. Never in a million years would I have expected Food Network to sign you up. I've been a fan since I read A Cook's Tour (never saw the show), and an admirer since you tried to appease the Uzbekistan masseur/sadist by telling him that Rachel Ray could cook. The Food Network is a ridiculous sham, and I hope you have a good laugh picking their pockets. Oh, and thanks for the great inscription on a copy of your book a friend of mine had you sign while you were in Santa Cruz last year ("To an obnoxious prick"). It's perfect!
Dude!
For the record your show is not only the best foodie program running but one of the only shows I will watch on TV. I hope your employers will take note. Your honest wit is refreshing & compelling. I appreciate the thoughtful things you have to say as opposed to the insipid drivel offered up by others. I hope you enjoyed your stay in our beautiful state.
Aloha,
R
Tony,
Watching "A Cook's Tour" prompted me to check out your books. I'd rather you had control of the series but I'll take it any way I can get it. I loved that series. It's fun watching your first exploits into foreign lands. It's like watching a child discover something new. The FN honchos know you are a huge draw so they are willing to capitalize on it while they can. The only show I watch on the channel is Iron Chef. I have added "A Cook's Tour." They need viewers and they'll pimp you to get them.
By the way, don't fret about the stark difference in your hair color and weight. Like fine wine you get better with time. You actually look more distinguished...like people may actually pay attention to what you say:) I like that you look less like a Sopranos extra now.
Happy New Year to you and yours!!
real glad to see bourdain back on the bad network. seems they were losing their wise ass, chain smoking, high functioning alcoholic viewers. cooks tour is now the most redeamingshow on fn. just watch, next year they'll give a travel shot to todd enlish's punk rock nephew...ps. my grandmother had sex with paula dean.
Tony, All I can say is ACT is how I got hooked on you in the first place.
It was nice to watch the Christmas Day mini marathon on the FN.
Hey I forgot Zamir was in the St. Peterburg ACT, he even tortured you on that show too (LOL).
If the FN wants to bring up their ratings and they have to exploit you at the same time (shame on the FN) let them you will be banking the money earned for all the book sales created by the F-ing head fools at the FN.
When ACT was taken off I was teed-off. Stopped watching the FN right then and there. Then I saw you taking the show and hitting the road over to the Travel Channel and I was a happy girl.
I have been watching NR ever since. Tony BTW you get better looking as you get older so don't get your undies in a bunch on about how you looked on ACT.
Enjoy laughing all the way to the bank on your up coming book sales.
BTW I my favorite ACT was when you and your brother suffered in the dead of winter in the fishing village in France where your Daddy was from. Tony you need to do a NR on that fishing village and get your Mom's take on it, because I'am sure your Dad took her there way before you and your brother were gleems in their eyes.
Have a great and wonderful New Year!, doing what you do best traveling the world and showing us what is out there to eat.
Heh. Check this out. Poor Rachel Ray -- her celebrity endorsements have been noticed:
http://www.yesbutnobutyes.com/archives/2008/01/top_ten_things_1.html
Yo Tony:
I am glad that FN dragged ACT out of the back vaults. It's the only way most of us can watch it... I did not watch any cable back then.
I have to agree with the other posters; Food Network seems doomed. Still like Good Eats and watch Iron Chef strictly for the camp value, but everything else seems pretty fluffy. Bobby Flay is a pompous egotistical jerk, and yes that guy with the hair needs to be banished somewhere.
I continue to be an avid fan and will watch every episode of No Reservations that airs.
Live Long and prosper dude.
P.S. Good on you for quitting smoking!
Dude, you always kick ass!
Anthony--you need to go off on Bobby Flay far more often, and in your usual colorful manner, than you do. The man is absolutely repulsive. And the arrogance of dropping mango salsa on everything short of a pile of yellow labrador sh*t and calling it "Southwestern"... good Christ. Everything you've said about FN is otherwise spot-on.
Yes I DVR'd "A Cook's Tour" and I thought, "Hmmm I wonder how Mr. Bourdain feels about the "Food" Network trying to profit off of him now that he has made a very well known name for himself, no thanks to Butter,BBQ and Bullshit network.
I've enjoyed the show, though, it's interesting to notice that not only is it a "younger, thinner, darker-haired" Tony...it's a less experienced, new to the world and more easily impressed Tony. Still snarky and hot, though.
Tony, it's great that you've joined us in the blogosphere. In fact, I blogged about it at: http://drinksareonme.net/?p=170
I actually caught A Cooks Tour on the other night. And it is much like No Reservation, but it is just one half hour long.(not long enough). Anyway, cant wait for the reruns, i telling my friends to watch it.
Okay I just wanted to say that the trip you took to Vietnam was a great show. I did not like that dam Vietnamese leader at all I think I would have punched him. Anyways he looked like an asshole.
Thanks,
Josh Modeer
Kansas City Missouri
Keep up the great work, you have Andrew Zimmern smoked.
I actually caught an episode of A Cook's tour on the other night, it was a lot like NO Reservations. but only a half hour long.I stopped watching the food network about a year ago, I will watch it but only for Tony. I cant wait for the new season to start. By the way my friends and I think you are really hot.
Watching the marathon that ran, I was puzzled, until I kept seeing all the commercials for No Reservations at the top of every hour. I figured Travel Channel was flexing some muscle and/or footing the bill to get your show pulled out of the basement at FN.
I had no idea they were planning to re-run the episodes.
Good for you!
They DON'T have anything better to put on. And they have tried travel shows featuring their "talent" in the past few years that have been nothing but miserable failures. Kinda like the rest of their current programing.
Have some hope. Maybe it'll clue in the execs that what viewers really want to see is intelligent, educational shows back like they had in 2000-2001, back before the Rachel Ray-ification of the channel. Save Food Network, Tony, save Food Network!!!!
Or, just take some of the new money and buy a couple of Rachel Ray and Sandra Lee cookbooks to piss on. That might cheer you up.
Like fine wine, you have aged well. Aside from that, I guess I'll have to tune in Food Network on Tuesdays. I watched the first time, then bought the book. Now I'll get to look at them together.
But, I can't wait for the new "No Reservations" season on Monday.
Tony,
In the off chance you read this....
Lets assume you have gone through your chef game of selecting your last meal and up comes the beverage portion.
Do you chose Schlitz because it`s "The BEER that made Milwaukee famous" or Pabtz because it happens to have a blue ribbon.
This is a much more important question than its initial irrelevane. possibily.
Tony, they're desperate.
Let's face it, the only one they've got left with a vestige of a functioning brain is Alton, and they seem to be working him to death.
And according to my sources at an event where you and I chatted last year, he won't be invited back due to acting like, well ... let's just say he wanted to do your style show, copped what he thought was your style 'tude, but couldn't produce your style talent or audience response.
You know, the regular Food Network is unwatchable now, but I love flipping the HD version on randomly. It's basically an entire network devoted to fondant, vast hot pink lava flows cascading over my set, as luridly phantasmagorical as the parade of vintage Hollywood costumes in Kenneth Anger's Puce Moment. AB would never fit in here, though, because it's an entirely preverbal experience, sort of a Baby Einstein for adult foodies (Baby L'Escoffier?)
It was about time for the FN to have your shows. Finally somebody that knows about good food.
Love your show, love your attitude and overall I love how sincery and thruthfull you are...we don't need anymore Rachel Ray's, Emeril's or Bobby Flay's...enough.
Ana
Maybe they will package your old show with 'Two Fat Ladies', Sara Molson, and Two Hot Tamales-that would at least improve their ratings! Better yet- FoodTV-Nickelodeon channel will all the old stuff!
FM
I love the Food Channel's recent revisit of "Cook's Tour", about the only show they ever had the balls to show that ventured beyond "The Barefoot Contessa" serving up tasteful meals to her gay friends in the Hamptons or the horror of the "30 Minute Meal" with Rachel Ray looking she has some kind of speed induced buzz as runs around like a maniac in the kitchen, or worse yet the dizzy blonde chick serving up cocktails and pre made shit on her tablescapes. I love that Tony has the heart and soul to go around the world finding the heart and soul of cuisine and have no shame in trying it all. You are why we love great cuisine Tony my boy!!
Food Network needs a show like Charlie Rose to interview all people in the culinary field.
First show guests: Thomas Keller and your boy Ruhlman
That Chef's Story on PBS is not working...harsh lighting and annoying host.
PS Congats on baby bourdain!
oh my god...Guy IS Poochie! I knew there was something about him that was unintentionally hilarious!
Well I do have a Cook's Tour Tivo'd so I'm wondering if you are suggesting that I don't bother watching it. We love No Reservations! My boyfriend is a talented cook so he actually watches FN with me although I think he's only interested in the nice "view" on the shows of Giada and Nigella.
Ironically we picked up a copy of Kitchen Confidential for the holidays but my boyfriend really prefers to read on his brand new Kindle. I hope that the authors get paid for those downloads, I'm always suspicious of this online nonsense.
Anyway, as a non-cook I'm learning lots, love the book! Certainly more than I'd learn from FN, and somehow I trust the information more. Gee, how do you do that? ;)
Yeah yeah we love you Tony, but my gut reaction to hearing the rebroadcasting of your old show on another network is that it's a tip o' the hat to your success and popularity. They think your old shows are better than what they can currently produce. They know a good thing when they've lost it. Certainly, your old shows are better value for them, especially since it costs nothing out of pocket except for commercial time. The ultimate tribute would be if they ran your old show against your new. A nightmare for ratings and side by side glimpses of your hair color, but dude, you still looking good and goddammit, graceful for a geezer. Sp keep up the good work Tony and try not to sell out by putting your name on whisks and frying pans at Macy's. If you do, we'll try and understand, as long as you maintain your honesty about the situation. THAT is your charm, my friend. Sawaddii Pi Mai Khrap.
On reflection, I think I'll enjoy being - once again - the turd in the Food Network punchbowl.
Two networks, one cup?
I was wondering what the hell that was and what the hell had happened to you. Seriously, I was channel flipping and saw the younger Mr. Bourdain and thought, "WTF? Why did he dye his hair? Why's this only on for half an hour? What is that dog chewing on now? Oh, gross..." (No, the last part wasn't about the show, just a common occurrence.)
I love No Reservations so much that I'll likely watch Cook's Tour just to see more food (well, and your unique way of presenting food and travel together). Thanks to you, I'm much more likely to stray from foods I know well and actually try something new.
Hey Tony,
First and foremost as a chef myself, i really enjoy your current show and the culinary ideas it brings to me.
i think since FN knows about the growing success of your show and the new season starting tomorrow... they want to capitolize on that and try to bring the NO RESERVATIONS viewer over to FN. clearly they cannot compete with your new season cause viewers want to see the NEW. so... to cash in on the proverbial "double-whammy" re-air ACT on tuesday.
Take it easy, i look forward to new BLOG entries
I can only hope this means that FN has figured that most of us can't tolerate the froth they currently serve up. It's unfortunate HGTV doesn't have anything of yours in their library...
Honestly?
As long as they don't play at the EXACT same time slot, I'll happily watch both, because that means double the Tony fun.
No Reservations is, of course, by far the better show. But it'll still be nice to see where you started out, even if only briefly.
Tony is right on with his ongoing fingering of the Food Network. So much crap on that channel right now...the one person that I would love to have thrown off that channel is the ultimate Food Nerd, Alton Brown. I cannot stand that mother f'er...! He and that jerkoff guy that pretends he is the nephew of Chairman Kaga...oh don't get me started...Alton Brown is the posterboy of what is wrong with Food Network. Nerds trying to make food into something way way too serious...
Quit your bitchin. Both "Cook's Tour" and "No Reservations" are shown--in no particular order--here in Colombia. Yes there is a thinner and a fatter guy, one with darker hair and the other with whiter. So what? The writing is as good, if different, in both shows. The second guy is often just too nice, however.
Mr. Bourdain,
When you get back to the city give me a ring and I'll take you over to Barcade, Spuyten Duyvil, and maybe Gutter so you can check out the now-totally-hopping Brooklyn craft beer scene. First one's on me.
Joel "No, You Don't Actually Know Me" Johnson
Hey, personally Tony….I think after viewing the pictures from A Cook’s Tour the “hideous hair whitening, skin puffing, tropical disease” wears well on you.
I find it interesting to watch the shift in Food Network's programming. It isn't, after all, like there's no place for a show like Rachel Ray's or "Emeril Live" but, for several years now it seems like those are the only kind of shows on the air other than "Good Eats" and "Iron Chef America". Who knows? If they're feeling out their options by re-running your old episodes maybe they'll get a bit of a bump and realize what it is that they need: variety.
It's funny: when I dine out or cook at home, I don't need massive quantities. I really crave variety in what I eat. Every person I know who enjoys cooking or viewing food programming is the same. So why would it be a surprise to FoodTV execs that what their viewers want is variety and not cookie-cutter replications of non-threatening, middle-of-the-road cuisine?
Whether the old "Two Hot Tamales", the sommelier David Rosengarten, or even that show (the name of which escapes me) that did restaurant reviews around the United States and Canada, Food Network has lost a lot.
Then again, who knows? Maybe the turd in the punchbowl will add some spice to the recipe...
One can only hope.
As others have correctly noted, it is quite simple: the FN knows they lost a GREAT show with a GREAT host and now they want to milk the fame (and get ratings) as much as they can. I highly doubt it anything else. For those who did not see the original series and are only aware of No Reservations, it is interesting to compare the two; it is apparent how Tony and the show developed and has now become what it truly was meant to be. Fear not, Tony; you still WIN.
Cheers, artnlit (Bonnie)
I'm not so sure, Tony...after witnessing that sleeveless cowboy shirt ensemble you had on in one of your ACT episodes...the FEAR began to creep in. Not sure if I can handle another such shock to my brain stem...
From a fan's perspective . . . old or new, I'll take your contributions to television and literature any way they come. Unarguably, your fans will welcome the opportunity to reminisce as they watch your old FN episodes.
You are entertaining, sapient and easy on the eyes. Any airtime is positive.
Quite frankly I'd rather watch the raw and rough at the edges Cook's Tour than most of the pompous and self-promoting cooking shows that turn up on the Food Network these days!
Can anyone really count themselves as a real chef if they advertise doughnuts (or the so-called coffee that goes with them)?!!!!
Maybe they're using ACT as a guinea pig, Tony.
Depending on the ratings that result from the reprise of ACT, Scripps could use that data as a reason to change the Food Network's current suckluster appeal and improve the legitamacy of the FN shows in development.
If they have any good business sense, they certinaly should do it now, while they have rights to ACT.
Scripps has a legal duty to operate in the best interests of shareholders, so if Scripps finds out via hot ACT ratings that making more FN shows similar to or in the spirit of ACT brings in more viewers and money(N.B. French Laundry at Home and artnlit are right -- ACT's ratings will kickass), Scripps better go in that direction . . . or else be in breach of that legal duty.
Scripps does not want that.
ACT might save the Food Network from going ALL the way down the dumper. I'd love to see more FN show's like ACT, even if it is only 30 minutes! It's what hooked me on the FN in the first place.
I was amazed to see you back on the Food Network after all this time, I'll bet they are even going to resent the royalties! Maybe Racheal Ray and the rest of the gang can come up with some good recipes for crow.
20 Minute Crow anyone?
Iron Chef Challenge "Crow"
Loved your new book, looking forward to this season!
Regards
KMJ
Ummmm . . . (a) maybe, realizing their rights to A Cook's Tour expires in June, FN wants to air the crap out of the show while they still have it, and (b) they are doing it because, although you're about as welcome at FN as a leper in Club Med jacuzzi, they realize (painfully) that you are a hot commodity (TV-wise), and your Q factor are off the charts . . . . soooooo . . . they are naturally going to try to squeeze whatever ratings spikes they can get out of your "Q" factor with whatever material they have on hand - i.e., A Cook's Tour? Because, you sure as hell won't be shooting anything for them any time soon, right?
No TV network is going to use up a prime time slot (8-11) just to "va fangool" a maverick ex-talent. Oh, no. There's money involved here. At it's embedded in your ratings and recognition factor. Just thinking out loud here . . .
A little bit off the topic - but you have some hot tour guides, specifically Namibia and Japan....
I did a double-take when I saw the commercial the first time. I had to check and re-check to see that it was the Food Network actually airing it.
My own feelings are that every channel should be more than happy to feature you - obscenities and all.
At least I wasn't the only one caught off guard.
I was flipping around one night in December hoping to catch an espisode of No Reservations on Travel Channel. I needed my fix! To no avail it wasn't on when I suddenly saw your face plastered on the Food Network!
It was interesting to see the early days of Bourdain with the weight of Momma Food Network weighing down on what was really boiling up in that head of yours. "No Tony you can't say that."
Now I sit here watching you eat delicious Korean soup waiting anxiously for the new season tonight.
All the best
-Pedro
FN has become such a melting pot of talentless hacks. I can tell you exactly why they put your show back on the air. Because the programming they have - trying to reach the young male demographic - isn't working. They're finally realizing that the audience they've been targeting is extremely fickle and has a short attention span.
Here's to the downfall of the f*#!&$* idiots in charge of putting these abrasive (yes that would be Rachael Ray), immature (here comes Guy...), boneheads (2 Dudes Catering... come on) in our faces 24 fucking 7. I hope they all choke on a sammie.
Anthony, I am a 71 year old blogger , grew up in the industrial laundry business ! Over the years dealt with food service all areas !
Lately have problem with the new Food Business ! I get the feeling I am eating a percentage ! I find value only in Middle Easter stores,
Vietnamese and Thai ! The great old Kosher Deli at least in Michigan is as dead as Custer ! I among other things as you do enjoy organ meats ! The old deli's had a great stew mad with lungs and hearts, it is now health departmebt no no !
Let's face it, Bourdain, they need your mug on the Food Network to keep the ladies watching. Next month they debut "Greatest Crackerbarrel Chefs" competition with Paula Dean's Second Cousin's ex-husband.
Shame the Discover channel's PR folks didn't hook me up so I could interview you for quickstopentertainment com. But I'll plug the new season in the column. The URL link is for an idea for your new season "The Air Conditioned Nightmare Part 2."
Did you get to hang out at Jim Nabor's Macadema plantation in Hawaii?
Sorry Anthony ... I was ecstatic to see your old episodes of "A Cooks Tour". I was frankly sad when the episodes left the Food Network. You were the only reason I watched cooking shows. Heck I'd pretty listen to you all day. My only qualm was "Keith Famie" when he resurrected as Anthony Bourdain on the Travel Channel.. I was surprised- pleasantly but perplex at the same time!
Think of the rebroadcasting as a compliment to your appeal and their stupidity for letting you go in the first place.
I saw that Food Network edited "Keith" out "A Cooks Tour" Episodes. Man that took some poor person hours to remove and edit.
So who's idea was the Keith name? hummmm?
My daughter says if she finds a guy with your crack up humor and cynical expressions she's going to be his travel companion...
PS Im on READY for the new episodes tonight!! Whoo Hoo!! Thank YOU!
Best Wishes
Virginia
Tony,
You are too funny! I'd watch you stand in front of the camera doing nothing for 60 minutes on ANY channel.
You can come and cook for me anytime! Cheers....
I hate to do this but I feel compelled. I have a son with Tourrette's and feel the need to point out that only ONE percent of all people with Tourrette's have Cropalalia (shout out obscenities). While I understand the need for metaphors and humor in writing, I also get tired of the media portraying everybody with Tourrette's as witless moron's shouting "crack wh*&re;" at hapless passerby's on the street. It's just not the norm for people with Tourrette's. Thank you for giving me a chance to educate. I must say I am THRILLED to finally be seeing new episode's of No Reservations as is my poor husband who has to see me morph into a whining gelatic mass everytime I tune in and see that we are enjoying another re-run.
Take care
Hey Tony,
Why dont you ever travel to Turkey. I am sure you will find the most amazing food ever! Say, in Istanbul, you will be able to eat Kokorec off of street vendors, In Bursa, you will have Iskender. Try it.
Never watched the show before, have now and I can not wait for the new season. Love it.
Tony,
I’m glad FN is bringing your old show back in reruns. We all know at the end of the day it’s about ratings and ad revenue. Show biz is dogs eat dog world, and they are looking to cash in on your popularity, I would do the same. It will be one of the better shows on the network however; FN has gone down a lot. But let’s face it; Travel Channel has a lot of drivel as well, Cash and Treasures, Most Haunted, World Poker Tour, and how many times do we need to see Vegas cheats or Hawaiian Beaches?
They are doing it for the ratings just like Food Network. We just have to pick out the few gems from all the garbage.
PS. I hope you go back Beirut and give it another try.
I'm tellin ya, I love your show. I simply love your honesty. Your great. Rock on!! You make me laugh.
Tony, as I was still living in Ireland the time ACT was first aired, do you begrudge a loyal fan the treat of seeing your first tv venture? I hope not. Of course, FN is (hopefully) doing this because maybe they have finally realised that hordes of former fans have deserted the channel in search of Julia Child et al. They have seen the popularity of NR and are cashing in on that. Get your shows away from them, out of their evil clutches before it's too late man! Anyway, I can't wait for the French Laundry episode, so sorry if I don't feel sorry for you. As as aside, we need something decent to watch besides Paula's Party and the Deliverance Family Vacation.....shudder, I mean, who cares? Maybe FN is finally getting it.
Thank you for the Poochie reference. That sums up Fieri perfectly.
If A Cook's Tour ever does make it out on DVD, I'm hoping for some juicy commentary tracks.
Tony,
How in the hell did Paula Dean's sons get their own show? "Road Tested". Yeah, right. Clearly, the show was NOT 'audience tested', as I've seen more personality and charisma from zombies in George Romero movies. If you put the brains of both of these guys together, you might just muster up enough IQ points equal to that of being able to legally buy a beer.
Keep up the great show, the brilliant writing and the intriguing narrations.
-A brother in MEAT!
Tony -
You are fantastic. Just keep doing what you're doing. I found myself fantasizing during the new year's eve marathon about how amazing it would be to travel, eat and drink with you. (There's an idea for a sweepstakes if I ever heard one. Although, I can only imagine what it would be like if a complete imbecile won. Now THAT would be a fun show. I can only imagine you ditching them at some restaurant to escape their idiocy.)
Your honesty and appreciation for what the world has to offer is contagious.
Allison
I'm just glad to watch you. Anywhere :)
Hey man,
As an aspiring hardcore/punk/post-rock musician and skeptic seeker of all things both pork belly and independantly musical in nature, I couldn't help but wonder why you haven't incorporated grass roots rock into your show more? Don't get me wrong, I like Queens and Josh H. too over holiday home chef stock but where is the proclaimed punk influence to help the kids who actually need a plug on the show? How about every city has a small music segment to complete the credibility wheel here? This seems like a natural crossover which hasn't been explored yet. My show ideas rule.