A Farewell to Fabio

Let me start by saying that I'm not really a fan of reality shows, and have managed to avoid watching them for years.  Survivor, American Idol, Fear Factor - whatever.  They hold no interest for me whatsoever.  That being said, my daughter got me interested in watching Bravo's Top Chef.  I came in during the seventh season and got hooked, so I was excited to be able to watch the new season which is Top Chef All Stars.  This brings back non-winners from the other seven seasons, pitting them against one another. Every week, at least one person is eliminated, and the battle continues until one chef will remaing standing.  I knew the chefs from season seven but none of the others, but I quickly developed some favorites, and lost a few of those along the way as they were eliminated. But there was one chef in particular that I couldn't help but like and champion - he is Italian, charming and very easy on the eyes.  I mean Fabio Viviani, of course, from the fifth season. Everyone loves Fabio - how could you not?  He is like this ideal man, and he is incredibly charming and good looking, and I root for him every week.

Until now. To my horror, last week, Fabio was told to pack his knives and go.  I was in shock; I'm sure I'm not the only one.  I was devastated.  I wanted it to be Angelo.  I still want it to be Angelo, but there's nothing I can do about it. He's gone.

So I'm taking this opportunity to say good-bye to Fabio - you will be sorely missed.  You were the light of Top Chef All Stars, the sparkle in eveyone's eye.  Your accent is so cute, I love to hear you talk.  You are so gallant, and so talented - if I ever get the chance, I want to go to your restaurants, I want to hear you talk in person, and I want to be the object of your incredible charm.

Here you are with Padma, one time former wife of Salman Rushdie, and also former actress who appeared in Sharpe's Challenge.
















I hear you are William Shatner's personal chef - how awesome is that?  I wish you all the best of luck, and I hope that the future is full of happiness and food for you.  Even if you were told to pack your knives and go, you are still my favorite, and you outshine the rest by far.

Farewell, Fabio - and good luck!