Jeanne wrote:

Interesting show. Cliff impressed me more on this show than he did on the Top Chef episodes. He was very professional.

Good set of questions from everybody. Looking forward to next week's with Tom C.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:53 AM

Dizzy wrote:

That episode of Top Chef had me on the edge of my seat, and then, to get to see more of the story on "watch What Happens," well, it doesn't get better than that. I love your show Andy. You're a natural. I'm hooked.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:23 PM

Debbie wrote:

If harming or threatening another contestant is grounds for dismissal, why wasn't Frank gone weeks before? The rules bend with the wind ....

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:24 PM

Kay wrote:

I enjoyed watching your interview. I may actually email next time.

p.s. People are way too sensitive sometimes. It made me laugh that you used the "Sophie's Choice" metaphor despite people ridiculing you for it.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:28 PM

Katy D wrote:

Andy, Thanks for doing WWH, we loved it. Excellent job.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:31 PM

Sue wrote:

Andy - You're an idiot. Sorry, but other words fail me. Reasons: 1) Yes, applying a Holocaust metaphor to a TV taping choice is about as insensitive as can be ... and doing it again in the face of criticism is just plain arrogance; 2) You sanctimoniously quote the rules that forbid touching or threatening other contestants ... so what do you call the Frank episode that you tout in all your commercials " ... your mother will not recognize you!" Perhaps if Frank had been held to the rules it would have let the contestants know the producers were serious about this being a professional competition rather than a cheap frat house drama fest; 3) while I was appalled at Cliff for manhandling Marcel, and at Sam for instigating and encouraging it, to compare this to a snuff film is again trivializing a serious issue and one more example of your penchant for the kind artificial, hyped-up drama which took a very credible show (Season 1) and allowed it to become a complete joke. As to your personal trauma of being locked out of your apartment ... perhaps you should have found a bathroom floor to sleep on. You seem to have been just fine with allowing your Top Chefs to drive one of their associates to this!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:23 PM

Lynda I wrote:

Are your effing kidding me? You were upset FOR Cliff and "the sensitive nature" in which he was eliminated? That is chutzpah to the Nth degree. He committed assault. It is a crime (in case you are the least bit interested). Ratings or not, I do not plan to view that episode ever again. It was degrading and disgusting. Cliff deserves to be arrested not cajoled by a "caffe latte slurping slickster".
During last night's "debacle" (as it was not really a decent show), you actually had an insipid contest for viewers to vote on "Who hates Marcel the Most?" with the inclusion of the choice @ D = Me!. That alone fuels the fire, you fool! I hope someday, somehow, this negative karma you have been pushing comes back to bite in you in the ass!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:29 PM

Irma wrote:

Andy,
You mentioned that a rule specifically prohibits one contestant from harming or threatening another contestant. Why wasn't Frank eliminated when he threatened Marcel during the T-day challenge? Were you asleep or out partying at the time???

In addition to Cliff's attack (he will never admit if he did mean harm, btw.), the others were yucking it up on the sidelines. I believe that Sam (the Man) and Ilan (the fool) should have also been asked to leave based on their collaboration in this idiotic gambit gone wrong. Imagine being suddenly awakened from a deep sleep, thrown onto the floor with no explanation. Would that be terrifying? It that occurred to a female, the police would have been summoned (unless snuff films are your bag).

If you are still in control for S-3, please, please, please do the job properly. Get only MATURE, GREAT COOKS, not juvenile also-rands.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:38 PM

jc wrote:

you should try and find a way to inject just a little bit more of your personality into the show without stepping on the guests. you seem to be repressing some of your joie de vivre and it think it would make the show better.

i know you're spotlighting the guests and the callers but you have a lot of personal charm in your blog that i think would serve this forum better

just my two cents

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:27 PM

Dave wrote:

Andy,

Since Tom C has said that the Producers over-ruled his judgement (which was to eject Sam, Elia, and Ilan, as well as Cliff, for their parts in the assault), can you say what the justification was?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:03 PM

Linda wrote:

That's it .. I will not continue to support (by watching) BRAVO. Last season, it was PR and Jeffrey won ... even though he was so rude to a woman who was his elder ... NO EXCUSE! And, he was never even called on the carpet for it .... as if it were acceptable behavior. A total lack of respect.

Then you've got the OC Ho Wives ... need I say more.

But then to top it off, last night on TC, you call videotaping an assault entertainment! I hope Marcel sues you.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:35 PM

Kristen wrote:

Andy,
I am done watching Bravo. These shows (including Project Runway) have sunk to an ultimate low. I am incensed by the assault on Marcel and production's reaction to it. Viewers: send a message. Don't tune in for the finale or next season. I won't.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:42 PM

Samuel D. wrote:

Very cool post-show feature. Good to get a little more backround on the whole show and the judging process. I'm also happy to see that Cliff is showing some remorse and realizes how he screwed up. As always, Gail looked good and was very insightful...Looking forward to next week's post show....will you be doing this for other Bravo show's???

posted on January 18, 2007 at 5:53 PM

anne wrote:

I'm so glad that you're proud of all of the controversy this has created. I'm sure it will draw in all sorts of viewers and make your network a big success. As for me though, I'm done. Totally. Before I read this, I thought I was done with just Top Chef, but now I'm done with Bravo. Period. This show and PR were the only reasons I noticed your channel in the first place, and since they have both become horrible parodies of themselves, I don't see any reason to stick around. I will now go and program my TV to skip over it while ranging through the channels, just as I have done with the Spanish-language channel and the several public access channels my system has on it. Like I said, I am done.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:05 PM

Wayne wrote:

Ya know, you and RuPaul should hook up and produce "America's Next Top DragQueen". Now that's a reality competition I want to see!!!!!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:06 PM

naomi blais wrote:

I've been reading alot of the blogs and watching the after shows with cliff and gail...I still stand with it was a prank that went bad,cliff was encouraged and was the only one to get punished..I don't believe tom opted to get the rest of the team sent home,because that would of been the end of the show..And by default Marcell would have WON, and not to many people want that to happen. Cliff made a mistake and It was harmless,but Marcell is a big sissy and he himself needs to go home..I'm glad Marcell didn't talk thrash after cliff left,that would of been the ultimate kiss off..I love this show and can't get enough of it, I actually watch it over and over again and It makes my husband mad that I watch the show over and over again,but I love it that much..peace

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:11 PM

Nan wrote:

Soooooooo, "little brother" is he? Who are you kidding? I hope he sues you and whole show. What a load of hype. Cliff's arrogance and his denial that the audience has any sense astounds me.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:13 PM

annette wrote:

The poll - who hates Marcel more?
proves Bravo did not take this incident
seriously. What an insensitive thing to do!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:19 PM

Jenny wrote:

Andy, what are you smoking? The season was a disaster, and the contestants, especially the finalists, were the most depressing and evil group I have ever laid my eyes on. It's so bad that I am THROUGH with this crap show. How could TC send any of those morons through to Hawaii? Do you think viewers are idiots, or are smoking something which disturbs our perspective? The finalists are CREEPS of the FIRST DEGREE. NOT ONE OF THOSE MORONS deserves anything more than contempt. Top CHef? God, if that's why you guys think is top notch, then I'm glad I live on the East Coast.
It's the end of the world, when such horrible human beings are rewarded with money and a trip to Hawaii. I have no respect for the producers and judges of this show. I am through with Top Chef.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:27 PM

selat wrote:

I love the show Andy! Your charisma and hotness certainly makes you live up to Kathy Najimy's "Andy-Eye-Candy" moniker. If you ever need a BF, let me know!!!

I definitely will "Watch What Happens" every week!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:46 PM

Rann wrote:

I agree with some of the above comments. Cliff's actions were awful and for him to say oh it just happens is b-s! It happens when people make that choice. I also do not think you and the show took it very seriously on the show after words on this site.
It was not a prank or a joke but an assualt. It was sick and sad. I lost all respect for Cliff and close to it fo the other two guys.
Andy think seriously about the way this is being projected. I am glad he was kicked off but then to act like it was just a harmless :prank" later is ridiculous. It has been harrassing behavior allowed for some time this season. Next season make tougher rules and don't laugh at someone juvenile acts.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 8:23 PM

middlechef wrote:

Have Marcel on and let him redeem himself with how professional he is instead of paying homage to fricking CLIFF. LOSERS. Cliff, Sam, Ilan, Elia. Not a combined ounce of moral fiber. Top Chef = people skills, leadership, integrity. NOT PRESENT IN THESE 3. Marcel has been the model of grace under fire, and THAT'S HOT.
And oh, who hates Marcel the most? Please! What a tasteless thing to do after having to watch him get raped by Cliff. Maybe you should follow through with your Sophie's Choice theme and ask who hates the Jews more. The only thing different between y'all and Mel Gibson/Kramer is that it's not about color/ethnicity. But it's still a hate crime.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 8:52 PM

Anna wrote:

Cliff Crook’s behavior was totally inexcusable. It was amazing to see Cliff managed to abdicate responsibility by characterizing it as a prank that “took on a life of its’ own”, as if he hadn’t made a conscious decision to act on his hostility towards Marcel. Cliff said: “ I shouldn’t have touched Marcel.” He didn’t “touch” Marcel, he attacked him. The aggression I witnessed was extremely disturbing, to see a man of Cliff’s size pressing Marcel’s face into the floor. As Marcel was being attacked, it couldn’t have been clear to him that Cliff did not intend to become even more violent.

But even more appalling than Cliff’s behavior is how other cast members and producers have basically responded very empathetically towards him. Gail Simmons patted him on the back and felt compelled to remind the viewers what a talented chef he is. The consensus of opinion seems to be that it’s a real shame that his prank got the best of him, again as if he had no control over his actions. Despite expelling him from the competition, no one seems to be taking him to task for his self-serving explanation or acknowledging the gravity of what took place.

What the producers of Top Chef allow to take place is appalling. In another episode, contestant Frank Terzolzi threatened to mess up Marcel’s face so bad that his mother wouldn’t recognize him. Why wasn’t Frank Terzolzi kicked off the show for threatening extreme physical violence? Permitting Terzolzi to remain after that was absolutely inexcusable. However annoying Marcel’s personality was to other cast members, he hardly deserved to be vilified as he was and certainly not threatened. He wasn’t nearly as offensive as some of teammates.

The real blame ultimately belongs to the producers and top executives of this program. Top Chef, like so many other “reality” shows, really showcases obnoxious behavior, rather than talent or professionalism. These ugly displays are the real basis of the show, providing the drama so many viewers tune in to see. Television executives are not going to risk alienating the lowest common denominator.

I'm done with Bravo,

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:08 PM

Anna wrote:

Cliff Crook’s behavior was totally inexcusable. It was amazing to see Cliff managed to abdicate responsibility by characterizing it as a prank that “took on a life of its’ own”, as if he hadn’t made a conscious decision to act on his hostility towards Marcel. Cliff said: “ I shouldn’t have touched Marcel.” He didn’t “touch” Marcel, he attacked him. The aggression I witnessed was extremely disturbing, to see a man of Cliff’s size pressing Marcel’s face into the floor. As Marcel was being attacked, it couldn’t have been clear to him that Cliff did not intend to become even more violent.

But even more appalling than Cliff’s behavior is how other cast members and producers have basically responded very empathetically towards him. Gail Simmons patted him on the back and felt compelled to remind the viewers what a talented chef he is. The consensus of opinion seems to be that it’s a real shame that his prank got the best of him, again as if he had no control over his actions. Despite expelling him from the competition, no one seems to be taking him to task for his self-serving explanation or acknowledging the gravity of what took place.

What the producers of Top Chef allow to take place is appalling. In another episode, contestant Frank Terzolzi threatened to mess up Marcel’s face so bad that his mother wouldn’t recognize him. Why wasn’t Frank Terzolzi kicked off the show for threatening extreme physical violence? Permitting Terzolzi to remain after that was absolutely inexcusable. However annoying Marcel’s personality was to other cast members, he hardly deserved to be vilified as he was and certainly not threatened. He wasn’t nearly as offensive as some of teammates.

The real blame ultimately belongs to the producers and top executives of this program. Top Chef, like so many other “reality” shows, really showcases obnoxious behavior, rather than talent or professionalism. These ugly displays are the real basis of the show, providing the drama so many viewers tune in to see. Television executives are not going to risk alienating the lowest common denominator.

Anna Herrick
Swarthmore, PA

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:19 PM

Jean wrote:

I have watched every episode of Top Chef 2 and watched these ego-driven chefs verbally pound Marcel. Frank threaten Marcel over a toothbrush. Betty screamed like a mad woman. But Marcel did right. He kept his cool and focused on his food. Sure all this makes for good TV... except when it really got out of hand and got physical with Cliff assaulting Marcel; Sam and Ilan being such fools egging Cliff on. After it was all over and Cliff got the boot... boy did those chefs change their tune and suddenly Marcel is just like a little brother to Cliff... Sam and Ilan realize how wrong the attack was. They all may be good chefs but what I saw of their behavior was right down there with low life criminals. I hope that the producers sit down and really do some re-vamping of what will and will not be tolerated on the next season... if there is one.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:49 PM

EJ wrote:

If the rules don't apply to everyone, Cliff should be allowed at the Finale because it should be all or nothing. Was it just because he was the biggest and the blackest one there?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:58 PM

Kevsmom wrote:

I have to tell you truthfully....I refused to watch your little post mortem. I don't think it is coincidence that this was set to air with such a controversial episode. Further, as disappointed as I was in Cliff, et al, I have to say, what the heck was Bravo thinking to run a hate poll? That just adds to the entire negative viewing experience, not to mention it's just downright nasty nasty nasty and inappropriate. The episode was been difficult enough without that damned poll. The poll made it look like Bravo was saying on camera "We won't tolerate the inappropriate behavior, Cliff, you are going to have to leave" but countering it with the poll "Hate Milan?" Like saying "Got hate? It's ok, everyone else hates Milan too!"

How juvenile and how inappropriate! Your blog touches on all these concerns about Cliff's feelings....but just seeing the difference in size between the two men when he was basically holding Marcel up off the floor by his arms had me appalled. I felt like I should have been calling 911! So in addition to my "What were they thinking???" for the chefs who participated in this....and they ALL did whether by tacit or covert approval and earlier bullying behavior (and why wasn't Frank told to leave????????) I have my question to Bravo..."What were YOU thinking by running a hate poll??" Shame on you!!!!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:51 PM

lARUEN wrote:

Hi Andy, when I read the blogs from viewers I see that many are intense and very forward and passionate and yet on your show they were very mild and not at all what we as viewers are seeing on the blogs. Are you purposely not allowing the much more intense comments to air on your show? If so, it is a bit hypocritical since the contestants on top chef can say whatever they want and the viewers are not able to do the same by asking them the REAL questions. Also, do the top chef contestants read the blogs that you know of?
Thanks

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:06 PM

Donald wrote:

Andy you are sexy, sexy man!

I love seeing and hearing you, and I thought the first show was great. Really smart questions from the viewers and not too many (!) technical gliches. I'll be watching every week.

NOW for the really important question:
"HOW DID YOU GET IN THE OPENING SCENE OF THE "SCRUBS" ALL SINGING EPISODE????

(and how great is Stephanie D'Abruzzo?!)

posted on January 19, 2007 at 12:06 AM

Tracy Lilly wrote:

I am very glad that you have a show that deals with the issues in the Top Chef episode because the events in the episodes apparently happen months in the past. However, your show is timely and aired immediately after we, the public, see the episode.

I also want to say, and have wanted to say for some time, that Betty utlimately proved herself to be unstable and a bitch; everyone just jumped on Betty's bandwagon to hate Marcel without waiting and getting to truly know the each other before making judgments. Betty was really evil when she shocked me and the judges with her answer to the question posed by the judges about who should go after the Thanksgiving debacle. When she turned into a banshee and said that Carlos should leave, her true persona was finally evident to all. What a fool - she blamed everyone, including Marcel, about her failed "Brulee", which failed only because of her poor cooking aptitude. No one else but Betty caused this dish to fail, in taste and in idea. If I had ever thought of eating at her restaurant, it is now gone.

I hope that the Marcel bashing will disappear and the remaining chefs will stop focusing their anxiety on him. Nothing I have seen from Marcel has warranted the negative reactions of the other chefs, and, for the record, he did not "throw" Frank's toothbrush on the ground like Sam claimed. I lost respect for Sam after that, just like I lost it for Betty after she bashed Marcel in the fire station. I was even rooting for Betty until that episode. Then I began to slowly despise her from watching her actions and reactions over the next episodes, not from what anyone else or your producers said or tried to make others believe. I used to respect Sam, Ilan, Frank & Cliff but have lost any respect for them by watching their behavior towards Marcel as well, way before the assault episode. They proved themselves to be immature and mean-spirited; I just hope that they fail, because, frankly, they deserve it.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 1:24 AM

Charles wrote:

You never change, you keep putting your foot in your mouth! Prehaps you should have checked with the legal department before you open your mouth again! You have comfirmed that you covered up a CRIME, you violated several California Penal Code, and you violated federal law as well. Congraduation you are going to Jail! I am so happy for you, prehap you can make your own "snuff" film while in prison as you get held down by your cellmate! I have had it with you and BRAVO, I will not work to have the entire lot of you put in Jail!

posted on January 19, 2007 at 1:34 AM

Ashley wrote:

I don't give a rat's ass about Cliff. He got kicked off for a good reason Andy. I hope Marcel sues Production, Bravo and Cliff. God, Cliff's a damn moron... as is everyone else except Marcel.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 1:51 AM

susan wrote:

I think its so funny that everyone assumes that Padma dresses herself for the show. I mean, you do have watdrobe people for that, right? I'll bet Jennifer Aniston doesnt get hate mail every time "Rachel Green" wears something revealing. Why does everyone assume that Padma wears her OWN clothes?

posted on January 19, 2007 at 2:02 AM

Janette wrote:

You obviously believe Marcel deserved everything he got. You're darned lucky he doesn't sue. All this hatred for Marcel would have rattled anyone and it's starting to show in his cooking. Yes, Bravo sent Cliff home but you saw this brewing and you did nothing to stop it. And now you're talking about how great and professional Cliff was on the after show? He was sooo sincere in his apology and regretted it: once he got sent home. You compared it to a snuff film. I compare it to a rape and you and Bravo obviously have the mentality that it's the victim's fault. Bravo used to be about quality. Even Project Runway was. However, you've shown your colors (or should I say NBC has) and I will never watch your shows again.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 2:17 AM

Corby wrote:

All I can say to most of the previous post, is Amen.

America, please wake up and speak. Do we really need this kind of hurtful, negative programming? This show as many others, could have been so much more.

I have to really wonder why I would support (watch) this network going forward.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 2:36 AM

rosaura wrote:

I really enjoy bravo. My daughters and I watch TC and even learn a few things to try. In PR we learn to be creative in sewing too. My daughters wan to cook and be designers; only I wish the people would watch there language it is offensive to hear so many beeps.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 5:20 AM

terry lee wrote:

youhave ruined the show this season with you horrible casting, betty, sam and ilan and not watchable and have left me and other sick to our stomachs-youlost alot of viewers over betty-her grotesque physcial appearance and the horror of her showing more than anyone wanted to seeo f her awful body and then her ugly ugly personality=she was such a phoney and so fake all of her reactions were overdone, her timing was even off-her cooking skills only include adding grease to her food to call it comfort food-but the horror of her behaviour to marcel-she made me and other naucous-a 55 year old woman should know better than to be as completely as offensive in personality, dress, grooming, etc. as she is-what she did to marcel is unforgivable and inexcusable-we all work in the industry and none of us will ever have anything to do with anything she is ever involved in in this town and we will make sure that everyone we known will do the same. Good luck to marcel who has more class, kindness, ability and is far better looking than any of his adversaries. She is worthless marcel, ignore the knat.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 6:16 AM

Jem wrote:

Andy,

You owe your TC viewers an apology for presenting them with lowest, least dignified, tawdriest and least principled group of people I have ever seen on a bravo show.
I think you can see from the majority of email responses that you've revolted much of your TC audience. Yes, YOU as the exec producer or whatever the role is- owe it to viewers to follow through on advertising. Dont promise a show about food and the creative process of its preparation and then ultimately present your viewers with a group of low lives who happen to own chefs knives.

its so tiring to watch at this point that I for one will not be tuning in to see the end of the season.
Better luck next time. You lost this viewer anyway. Jem

posted on January 19, 2007 at 7:31 AM

Dave wrote:

Double Standards

Marcel should have been sent home too, because he also committed an assault on a contestant. I don't know who was shooting the camera footage, but Marcel stormed off to a back room and slammed both doors, leaving the right door ajar. The cameraman followed him to the room and continued shooting footage from what appeared to be the doorway. I saw Marcel charge across the room, and strike the person holding the camera. I watched replays of the footage over and over, and saw Marcel grab at and push the camera holder with his left hand and he drew back his right arm and struck the camera user, yelling "get out"...

Punishment should be given in varying levels of severity, based upon the level of participation. Three other participants in Marcel's violation received no punishment and Marcel got no punishment at all for assaulting and striking the unknown camera holder! Marcel's was totally ignored for what appears to be, favoritism.

I do have 2 questions:
1) If the rules say you can't put your hands on another contestant why wasn't Marcel eliminated when he tackled Elia on the beach?
2) Why wasn’t Frank eliminated when he threatened to beat Marcel beyond recognition?

posted on January 19, 2007 at 7:47 AM

Kathy wrote:

Like some of the others who have written I too have watched my last TC. It was like being back in junior high. I was so glad when Betty left and hoped that would be the end of all the picking on Marcel thing but it just got worse. Marcel is the only one in the competition who has showed any maturity and I really hope he wins.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 8:41 AM

ladyem wrote:

I cannot believe that Cliff can keep saying things like when creative minds get together they need to blow off steam....it was a joke that went awry...blah, blah, blah. And, Gail and you just sympathetically nod your head.

He committed assault, and if the tables were turned, I doubt he would find it so understandable. He should have been kicked off the show along with the other three who sat there and watched it happen. If I were Marcel, I would file a criminal complaint.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 9:12 AM

SKB wrote:

i was really disappointed in the softballs you were throwing cliff and how you basically just gave him a forum to describe the event as a "weird" incident that apparently just kind of happened--very little accepting of responsibility occured. this whole incident has made me lose respect not only for all the chefs involved in the bullying but also in the production that, in my mind, is also complicit. people who do bad things are not all bad, but the fact that someone may have good qualities doesn't let them off the hook for their bad behavior. i've always loved your insights into the shows but i gotta say, you came off as a totally ineffectual interviewer and i felt like your priority was letting cliff redeem himself rather than contributing at all to any understanding of the incident.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 9:27 AM

Martin wrote:

After seeing Bravo's reality version of the Isaiah Washington/T.R. Knight scandal, better known as Cliff (and the Mob) v Marcel, I must say I'm utterly dismayed at the integrity displayed by this network and our gay producer friend Andy. The Top Chef this season is a total wash. Awarding the prize to anyone, other than Marcel, would be a disgrace. Elia could have been a Katherine Heigl but shame on her. In my neck of the woods BRAVO stands for Buckeye Region Anti Violence Organization. Something this network obviously doesn't. It must be worth it since you get to urinate next to Justin Timberlake.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 10:56 AM

janeyek wrote:

As I have posted on each of the other blogs for Top Chef, the "professionals" associated with this show (Tom, Gail, and Padme) had better re-examine their priorities should they decide to do this program next year. I would not want my professional reputation to be associated with a show that allows unchecked bullying, sexual denigration, and physical violence to become a part of its "aura". Season 1 was fantastic and the level of professionalism in cooking techniques demonstrated by the chefs was so far above this group it almost seems as if it is a different show on a different network. The producers are at fault by allowing the incessent bullying to escalate into a physical confrontation topped off by a "who hates Marcel most" contest, pandering to the lowest common denominator of viewer. I (as many others on the blogs) will no longer be watching the ending this season since no one seems to come close to the definition of "Top Chef" and really would not earn the prizes or opportunities given. And as far as Cliff's "remorse", of course he had to play THAT game, his professional life is on the line since I would not frequent a restaurant that he either owned or operated as well as the other so called "Chefs" left in the running. I hope that serious thought will go into season 3 and it will have the quality of people found in season 1, not this group of adolescent bullies.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 11:48 AM

quemdelune wrote:

you honestly expect intelligent viewers to believe this entire season (esp this last episode) hasn't been scripted? you've turned a culinary show into a survivor show.you waste so much time filming behind the scenes scraps instead of filming what we're really interested in: what and how they're cooking food. (ie iron chef style.) its not about who's the best chef it's about who'll survive the chefs.
last nite was a low blow. the only reason to give them a camcorder was to let them film this mock attack without a bravo member involved. did you supply the shaver too? and how exactly did this camcorder 'make it's way' to the producers? did it have little legs to carry itself or was a person attached to it? "idiots" as padma referred to the chefs applies to you.luckily elia had that back-up wig just in case.had this been a real assault you'd have found yourselves in legal hot water airing it without marcel's consent and putting yourselves in jeapordy. obviously cliff got to choose how he was eliminated. you may have acquired more viewers but you've lost intelligent ones who are really interested in the culinary arts.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 12:19 PM

Charles wrote:

I have said it before I will say it again... The only people you can legal get away with discriminating against is a single white hedrosexual male. If a Big Black man had pin Elia on the floor and threaten to shave her head, it would have been a national news story and your and the other producers would have been in jail before night fall or Cliff and the others would have been! I find it hard to believe that BRAVO would risk multi-million Dallors Lawsuit (the waiver the contestant signed does not protect BRAVO and the producers from this) to back the idoits of producer up, but that is what they have done. Prehaps this issue has already been noticed by the FCC, California Attoney General, and the Los Angeles DA Offices to have justice done!

To all though who think this is not assault google Cailfornia pental law regaurding Assault and Battery you will be suprised!

posted on January 19, 2007 at 1:08 PM

pearl wrote:

my question to cliff: why did you lash out at mia and lie about the fact that she suggested more than 4 dishes?
just to support the uppity white french chic who wouldn't support her either? elia the snake in the grass.
and we don't buy this marcel's my little bro crap.you guys staged this wrestling with the chefs act. how do we eliminate cliff and boost ratings? you've lost me.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 1:36 PM

judycrayton wrote:

Thanks for appearing Clif. I have been angry with you for the last two shows and this gave me a chance to see the real person and get things in perspective. I agree that you were a gentleman from the time Tom talked to you until now. Thanks for hugging Marcel. You are a nice person and I wish you more than the best.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 1:59 PM

connie wrote:

Andy:

I really hope Marcel brings a "suit", against "Top Chef", for not charging Cliff for assult. Top Chef had the pictures, saw everything, and still kept 3 people in the competition who did nothing to help Marcel, and therefore, were just as guilty.

I would say to you Andy: How would you like to be sleeping, and then be pounced on by a very big man, and have your face put into floor, and have others filming it and laughing? Somehow, I don't think you'd like it much.

None of you at Top Chef, as far as the ones making "light" of all this, or not bringing justice to a victim, are even mature, compassionate, evolved human beings.

Your "top chef" show has discusted me, and I hope "what goes around, comes around" to all who "choose" to do nothing.

Connie

posted on January 19, 2007 at 7:33 PM

deb wrote:

How on earth can you possibly say that it reminded you of a snuff film and then make excuses for Cliff and praise his professionalism?

Marcel pushed a camera away after one of his tormentors tried to film him undressing. Cliff threw a sleeping man on the floor, pinned him face-down, then dangled him like a doll. How is this not a bad thing? To the people who are posting, how could Marcel have possibly brought this on himself? This is not how civilized adults act; that's why there are laws against it.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 8:31 PM

Morgan wrote:

I just want to contribute my two cents to this whole stupid situation by making the following points:
1) I have watched the show all season long and even without first hand exposure to him, I do find Marcel to be incredibly obnoxious and annoying. His brand of obnoxiousness is very subtle when compared to say Stephen or Ken from season 1 or even Betty from season 2. The latter being more akin to being hit with a hammer, which dazes you but at least steels you for the blow to come; whereas Marcel is more like Chinese water torture, which at first seems bearable but slowly drives you crazy until you give in. Most people have encountered individuals like this (both kinds) now imagine having to live with it 24/7; it's not really surprising that people have lashed out. Not an excuse, an observation and perhaps partial explanation.
2) This in no way excuses what happened. For Christ's sake, these people are professional adults, not children who don't understand the consequences of their actions. Beer, elation, and misplaced sense of rebellion does not change this, and the actions taken were appropriate. Cliff's apology was accepted by Marcel, and if he is cool with it everyone should be too. He doesn't seem to be seeking sainthood or special treatment, nor has he taken a wounded stance (props to him for being incredibly adult about all of it).
In conclusion, I think the issue should be considered closed. Cliff is gone, yes he was wrong and accepted responsibility as well as apologized. Marcel has accepted the apology and appears to moved on. Therefore name calling and anger towards people who are not inclined to treat Cliff like an ogre and Marcel like a martyr are uncalled for and dare I say it, silly.

posted on January 19, 2007 at 9:01 PM

Bonnie wrote:

AGAIN, the Frank thing was not assault - the legal definition of assault is "conduct putting someone in reasonable apprehension of imminent harm." Frank's statement was conditional: "If you do this again, I'll ..." hence, not assault. The purpose of the Bravo rules, I'm guessing, is to protect Bravo from tort liability. What Frank did was not a tort, so there was no legal reason to punish him.

posted on January 20, 2007 at 9:14 AM

Amazon wrote:

I take exception to Andy's attempt to lessen what happened to Marcel by calling it a "prank."

Would you consider it a "prank" if it happened to you, by people who had harassed you (including sexual harassment) for weeks previously?

Would you consider it a "prank" if it happened to your mother? Your sister?

I will echo what others have said in response to your blog:
1) It was radically obscene to give Cliff --the perpetrator of an assault on a sleeping colleague!--an unopposed opportunity to spin what he did.
2) The producers have made choices this season that have greatly denigrated the viewers' experience, when compared to last season.
3) There are many episodes this season that involve harassment of Marcel that I will never watch again.
4) If it was Elia or Cliff who had been assaulted while sleeping, you would not be calling it a "prank," and those who collaborated and co-conspiraed in the assault would not be going to Hawaii.

posted on January 20, 2007 at 1:25 PM

Gregg wrote:

Wow - the venom on this board is amazing! For people who have an issue with violence, there seems to be a lot of aggression in your words.

As someone who has worked in various creative fields (theater, events, interior design) I have to agree when creative types get together stuff like Cliff's behavior does occur. Did it go too far? In my opinion, yes, and it was appropriate for Cliff to be sent home. But it doesn't make him a bad person, nor does it make the producers bad guys for not dismissing everyone. (In which case, what would they do - have no finale? Please.)

And to all those who want to add another lawsuit to our already litigious society - if Marcel and Cliff can get over this, I think you should too!

posted on January 20, 2007 at 3:38 PM

Maxie Halston wrote:

Andy, You are superman. In LA one minute, on stage with the real"Dreamgirl" Ms. Ross and then hosting a show, looking GORGEOUS so...How did you get locked out of your apt.???

posted on January 20, 2007 at 6:45 PM

Ann wrote:

I was disgusted by what I saw Wednesday night as a big black Cliff performed a hideous "act" on Marcel. As a woman, it was terrifying to witness. It looked like some bizarre quasi-rape scene. I will not be watching the show, but more important, I agree with others who have posted that there needs to be something done about this kind of scum on television. Top Chef is not about cooking as much as it is about drama and histrionics. Compare the remainders here to last season-this group is a joke. They have no moral compass and are not nearly as talented as the first group. Harold was a class act-I repeat- a CLASS ACT.

Cliff: I wanted him or Sam to win the whole thing. But his true colors showed the later the show went on. I think Cliff should be on a sexual predator lineup, along with the rest of the frat boys of this country who think behavior like that is just a "prank". Women, beware. I was incredibly revolted by the act. He looks like an overfed beast with the arrogance to match. I abhor unecessasry violence, but somebody needs to pop that Pilsbury dough boy.

As for Andy the interviewer-you are a joke.

posted on January 21, 2007 at 12:02 AM

James wrote:

Sorry, but I don't buy for one minute that you didn't know about the "Who hates Marcel the most" question. Disgusting.

How about: "Who hates Top Chef the most?"

You're a typical unprincipled businessman, and Top Chef won't last much longer, I can guarantee you that.

posted on January 21, 2007 at 12:23 AM

Legolass wrote:

Your Bravo Poll, "Who Hates Marcel The Most", says it all. The producers of this show jumped right on the Hate Marcel bandwagon and contributed to the atmosphere leading to his eventual and inevitable assault. I can imagine all of you cackling with delight along with Sam and Ilan as this spectacle unfolded. Have you no shame?

posted on January 21, 2007 at 3:37 PM