Chip Bennett wrote:

In point #2, what do you mean by saying, "The chefs know that there is someone on the production team sleeping in a room nearby and that they can go to them at any time if they have a problem. Marcel could have done this but did not."?

How about Sam, or Ilan, or Elia could have done that, but they did not? Marcel was the one being assaulted. He showed incredible restraint by choosing just to leave the situation rather than contribute to or escalate it.

I am extremely disappointed that 30 minutes of air time were devoted to food, and the remaining 30 minutes were wasted on so much drama. I would rather have a passing reference to Cliff's departure, and more time spent on the food - with more involved information left for the meta-show information on the web site.

posted on January 17, 2007 at 11:16 PM

Stephanie wrote:

I don't think there's anything wrong with Elia and Ilan shaving their heads...

posted on January 17, 2007 at 11:21 PM

Matt wrote:

I hope you and everyone else in charge of this show get fired for this. I know you saw the warning signs, because you blogged about it, so you can't say you didn't see it coming. If Bravo doesn't clean house, I won't be watching TC3.

I also think it's disgusting that Sam and Ilan didn't get punished for their role in this. They committed a crime!

Best wishes to Marcel and Elia though.

posted on January 17, 2007 at 11:22 PM

nancy wrote:

ugly situation - good reality tv. No matter what you think of Marcel, I think he was a class act given the circumstance. What didn't have any class was your viewer poll about who hated Marcel the most -totally uncalled for.

posted on January 17, 2007 at 11:34 PM

georgie wrote:

The all-too-frequent, blatant product placement is RUINING THE SHOW!!!

Padma: "Pack your food in the Glad containers provided in the Kenmore Pro Kitchen and take your Rav 4s to the restaurant to prep..." WHO TALKS LIKE THAT!!!!

Can't you just show the products and then SHUT IT?!?!

posted on January 17, 2007 at 11:37 PM

Rob wrote:

Season 1 was about professional chefs trying to impress with food. Season 2 has been about immature, competition-first bores for whom food seemed secondary. Which direction do you anticipate for Season 3. Your answer will determine whether my family bothers to watch next season.

posted on January 17, 2007 at 11:46 PM

Lori wrote:

I agree with your comments about Cliff manhandling Marcel, but not with your comments about Ilan and Elia shaving their heads. Chefs are creative artists and none of us who watch can imagine the pressure and stress they are under while on this show. I think the extreme hair cuts were a reaction to the stress. I think both Elia and Ilan looked cool with their new hairdos. Elia, especially. Her dark looks and eyes are striking and she really pulled off the almost bare head better than most other women I've seen with bare heads.

posted on January 17, 2007 at 11:46 PM

chandy lach wrote:

I have always been highly antipated when it comes to watching chefs prepare delicious meals, it makes it better when there is drama in it, however, it disgusted me at what had happenend in the episode with Marcel being attacked by Cliff. I personally wanted Cliff to leave from the beginning. He has proven to the world that he is a mindless arrogant person who who lacks self respect for others and likes to bully people that gets in his way of things. The other three contestants should have been asked to leave also, they have lost all of my respect and have left a "bad taste " in my mouth.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:00 AM

Agast at these events wrote:

Please, for the love of God, choose more mature chefs next season! I've loved this show, but this entire season is one big flashback to junior high. How old are these people anyway?!?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:07 AM

McKate wrote:

'Of course it does make for a very compelling episode and for a producer 'compelling' stories are the holy grail."

Hmmph. Well then you and I have very different definitions of what makes a "compelling" cooking competition. Next season how about we see some FOOD? I could name at least 10 dishes for you from season 1 that I would love to devour and learn to cook and make for my friends and family. I can't remember a single compelling dish from season 2. I don't know if it's the caliber of the contestants, the editing & storylines, or both. but, you know. I watch Top Chef instead of crap like "survivor" for a reason.

As for the finale, I say, Vote Harold. He should just win again, because I am disgusted and bored with all of the season 2 contestants.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:10 AM

Katie A. wrote:

Why would whoever is in charge of choosing the cheftestants pick anyone who already owns a restaurant? There, were, I think, three or four of them this time around who, as Mia put it, had "a successful business to go back to". They've already reached their goal. It's like letting professional athletes into the Olympics.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:22 AM

scott wrote:

"The next morning, I got a call from a field producer who had arrived at the loft to find Elia and Ilan without any hair. I was furious with them as I felt it was kind of a juvenile prank to pull which undermined the dignity of the show"

Undermined the dignity of the show? This was the only thing that made me laugh. Undermined the dignity of the show, lol....PLEASE get over yourself.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:29 AM

Nanette wrote:

Sorry, but this was not a compelling episode. It was horrible. Those kind of antics may be common on MTV or VH1, but I have no desire to watch them. The REALLY sad part is that Cliff is not the only person that should have been disqualified. Ilan, Sam and Elia all participated in and were heard laughing uproariously. They all should have been sent home. As far as I'm concerned, the show is over and I could care less if it ever airs again. I won't be watching.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:29 AM

TC wrote:

Why didn't anyone stop Cliff from hurting Marcel? Why Ilan and Sam weren't punish for letting Cliff violently hurt Marcel? Why ilan got off easy since he was encouraging Cliff's action? Why didn't anyone stop this violent?????

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:32 AM

John wrote:

I sympathize with you. There seems to be a popular boy's club that cares more about harassing Marcel than about being a professional and talented Chef. Thats a real shame because they have such great talent. I love your show, it needs the drama, but not the ridicule Marcel has had to endure. I wish him the best. I seriously hope that Ilan grows up. He seems to egg on the problems, he's been extremely immature and classless with he attitude towards Marcel and the show. I'm rooting against him, but I hope in the end it truly is about the food and not his ignorance and childish treatment of others.

REGARDLESS, of the over the top behavior of this years contestants. Top Chef is a Great Show and I look forward to watching it every week. Don't beat yourself up to much over this episode. You have a great show and always seem to make the right decisions. P.S. -- I like the removal of the immunity especially when you are doing team challenges, if you bring it back next year I think you should just have the person winning the Quickfire sit out of the team event.

Thanks for a great show!!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:42 AM

Greg wrote:

These guys are scumbags. I don't think you realize how many viewers have *no* interest in watching this show anymore after what happened. I'm done with it personally.

The only "right" thing to do was to eliminate both Ilan, Cliff, and Sam. You chose only to look at this one incident rather than their "body of work" over the season to Marcel. What went down in this episode was premeditated assault. Sickening. Just sickening.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:53 AM

Nick Phan wrote:

What were the criteria for this season's contestants? Did the producers decide to mix in personality over talent? It's obvious last year's group is far more talented, creative, and skilled. This year's group makes for better "compelling" drama but in my opinion, most of season 1's success came from brilliance of the chef's sprinkled with a dash of personality rather than the other way around. At the end of this season, when the title is awarded, do you really believe any of these people deserve the title of Top Chef?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:59 AM

Biebs wrote:

My roommate and I were so disgusted with this episode. Not just because of the contestants, but because of BRAVO's desicion to actually air the footage of cliff holding Marcel down as we hear Ilan rooting it on. Honestly, disgusting. When I want to see people beat each other up on reality television, I'll turn on MTV. But TOP CHEF?!? It was uncomfortable to watch. I can almost hear the producers saying, "GOLDMINE! GOLDMINE! FINALLY SOMETHING TO COMPETE WITH THE REAL WORLD!" It's sick. The two of us both really liked the show in the beggining, but it's just gotten so silly now. No, not silly, I guess. More like garbage.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:06 AM

Phil wrote:

You kicked off Cliff for a violation of the rules (agression) when he was clearly clowning around and not violent or acting in anger. Yet you allowed Marcel to stay after he assaulted your camerman with both anger and violence. Seems a bit hypocritical to apply your rulkes so unevenly. yes, Marcel was an victim this time, but he's also been agressive in behavior to the other contestants which was shy they singled him out. Neither were innocents here, both should either have been chastised and them voted on based on their food abilities, or both should have been sent home. And the contestants who shaved their hair? Know of any other chef's who shave their heads? No big deal.
I also think you need to reign in Padma, and place he in a back seat for awhile.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:19 AM

karen wrote:

Thanks you for being honest and explaining what happened and your right you shouldn't have to be babysitting adults, this was a bad way for the chefs to act and Marcel handled it so well, I don't think I could of, but didn't you guy see that for weeks that they have been ganging up on the poor guy from Betty, to Frank, Ilan the worst one of the bunch and if he wins I hope Marcel sues his ass, to Sam who I think is the best chef but I rather see it go to Marcel who had to deal with all this and put up with this hatred, Sorry you should of had words with all of them for their awful actions toward Marcel weeks ago, and this wouldn't of happened, my first year watching love the show, hate the drama of these chefs, I didn't really like Marcel, but I do now and rooting for him to win, and Elia, she does cause trouble but I don't think she knows it, and she hates it when a guest judge doesn't praise her dish, but I do think the girl can cook, and hey isn't that what the show is about, who can cook, not who hate who. I think you need first to have a rule no more treating someone with hate and bullying and read the blogs everyone for weeks have been complaining about the treatment of Marcel, so you have a part in this happening and blame but thank you for letting us know what happened that night.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:55 AM

Melanie wrote:

I am disappointed that the producers elected to disqualify Cliff from the competition, but allowed Ilan to stay. Yes, Cliff was the one holding Marcel down, but Ilan was an eager participant in the "prank". He can clearly be heard yelling for Sam and Elia to come shave Marcel's head, that Cliff is holding him down for nothing." While I don't disagree that Cliff should have been asked to leave, I think Ilan should have been asked to leave as well. Sam and Elia should have been more severely reprimanded for allowing it to get so out of hand. Alcohol is not an excuse for that type of juvenile behavior.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:38 AM

Vy wrote:

I am glad to know that the producers of this show do care about the competition as much as the contestants. As someone who is a culinarian, it is refreshing to see people take food seriously!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:46 AM

Charles wrote:

Ok,
Please tell us how you can excuse Sam, Ilan and Elia from the assault on Marcel? And you defend them by saying that "Marcel did not go to the production team to report the assault" Well why would he, for weeks you have allow the mental rape of this man and now you film the actual attempted physical assault! Would a rape victim ever go to the gang that raped them to report the rape! This happen in California, were the police call, if not why? You have a crime on tape for God Sake!
And you “were sorry to have to ask Cliff to leave”, are you out of your mind? If you had kept him you would have most likely been asked to leave! And it is funny how the people on this production team see Rape as a prank. Oh my goodness, I love how you ended your piece because this describes that attitude of the production team all season…"Of course it does make for a very compelling episode and for a producer 'compelling' stories are the holy grail.” Let us all pray that before Top Chef 3 goes into production there is a team in place who can provide a safe place for Chefs to cook.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:50 AM

Sarah wrote:

I was physically sickened by this episode.
I'm just stunned that a COOKING show put an assault on the air. And that three conspirators (before the fact) were left with no consequences, not even a slap on the wrist. You should have shut down the competition immediately, sent all of them home, and offered the prize to Marcel.
And "sorry, but we have to follow the rules?" Why is anyone sorry about Cliff's departure? He committed a felony, and there is no need for anyone to apologize for his dismissal. Would you all be as sorry if they had succeeded? What if the attack had resulted in a broken neck, or had been sexual in nature? Just because no one got seriously injured does not change any of that. An attack is an attack. Any apologies to the perpetrator sound like there is some approval going on.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:56 AM

Erik wrote:

I'm confused- in the previous blog you seemd to think Marcel brought everything upon himself (weren't your words something like "it is not acceptable for Marcel to not care what others think of him"?) yet now you are shocked and appalled? Why not step in previously when the abuse was verbal instead of waiting until it became phyiscal?

Also, why not remove the other chefs? Ilan, Sam, and Elia are hardly blameless in this fiasco- Ilan egging on the situation while Sam and Elia stand by and laugh while Marcel is restrained by Cliff. If someone had been willing to shave Marcel's head or even just remove a hunk of hair would multiple people have been asked to leave? Guilt by association comes to mind since no one apparently did anything to even try to help Marcel- not even a word.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:17 AM

JM wrote:

I hate reality TV. I started watching Project Runway and then Top Chef because of the concepts of the shows being about the inspiring, dedication people have toward their craft and it's great to watch people trying to be their best under the given circumstance.
I can't believe these people and the way they behave. I also am disappointed and uninterested in the drama, immaturity and personality conflicts that the editors and producers have chosen to showcase this season. I hope that it isn't a sign that the integrity of the show's concept has been abandoned.
Watching chefs create their masterpieces or "misfires" under pressure and with high stakes is inspiring and fasinating; watching diva, infantile, self-involved, ego conflicts is tiring and trite. I wish the focus was the challenge at hand and presenting the best most delictable, innovative dish.
I hope things stay more focused from now on.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:19 AM

Robin wrote:

As a producer you are in charge of editting and need to own up to letting this season sink to this level. Fix it please. I am so upset as I loved this show last season and have held my nose ever since Marcel became the butt of jokes and snide remarks.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:26 AM

A.J. wrote:

So this is why Ilan has been wearing a hood in most of his interviews during the season?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:29 AM

george wrote:

Can you further explain your displeasure toward Elia and Illan for shaving their heads? I really do mean no offense but it seems rather childish of you to call them childish for shaving their own hair. Is there some stipulation in the contract that they aren't to radically alter their appearance?

Also, one of the big elephants in the room seems to be the question of alcohol. There have been hints that production provides alcohol for cast members because it provides a social lubricant for interactions in front of the cameras. Is this true?

And I'm sure you're already anticipating this question, but this episode obviously presents a moral conundrum of sorts. It seems like blame is flying everywhere, and in most cases rightfully so. A number of people acted immaturely, violently and disrespectfully. But what is your perspective on the responsibility of production? Not that this would free anyone involved from responsibility--nothing is either/or in a situation like this. A lot of your comments addressed the in-production aftermath, but there also seems to be the idea that this is somehow "good t.v." and somehow that seems the most troubling of all.

Still sorting through thoughts and feelings about the show and whether any of this is worth watching anymore.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:39 AM

KQ wrote:

Self-inflicted haircuts are not such a bad thing. Considering this particular group of -- what did Padma call them? idiots? -- a buzz cut seems pretty harmless.

I posted this over on Chef Tom's blog, but seeing as how you are the producer, it seems more appropriate to send it along to you:
Perhaps there should be a change in the rules for next season: no alcohol for the contestants outside of the kitchen. That would be a *real* challenge for those who can't get through a night without alcohol, wouldn't it? However it seems obvious that alcohol has been the root of all of these stupid shenanigans (a.k.a. emotional abuse and assault).

And while I'm dreaming, how about banning potty-mouth, too? Good grief, can any of these chefs -- going back to episode 1 -- get through a sentence without an f-bomb?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:05 AM

PenguinChef wrote:

Hello Shauna,

Forget about the drama, you had Chef Eric Ripert there! How did that feel? I know that the chefs who were present were probably blown out of the water by being near such a culinary giant. Did the contestants get to spend some "talk time" with Chef Ripert? Were you or the staff lucky enough to have him make even a simple dish there on the site?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:14 AM

Elle wrote:

I have a question I hope you can answer:
There is some discussion on many internet blogs/forums that fans are disappointed that Top Chef seems to have shifted focus on drama away from the food. I was wondering if the contestant selection will change so that the contestants will be "colorful characters" but also less crazy?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:17 AM

Disgusted viewer wrote:

You were sorry you had to let Cliff go? It was clearly a "prank" gone wrong? What part of assault and battery isn't clear to you? You should be thanking your lucky stars that you weren't all sued and that Marcel didn't call the police. The show has been egging on the Lord of the Flies behavior by the others for weeks, and you're surprised this happened?

And after the others stood around and let it happen, Cliff is the only one sent home? And you then compound the Lord of the Flies behavior by actually having the online poll be about who hates Marcel the most? Omigod, were you all dropped on the head a lot as children?

If anyone at the show had any integrity you would have cancelled production right then and there. And if anyone at the network had any integrity you'd all be fired.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:19 AM

Joanna wrote:

One question that is bothering some viewers (including me) is: We saw Cliff apologize to Marcel for the whole incident, but what about the others? They seemed to express some remorse, though, to be honest, I was skeptical about their sincerity. It seemed that Cliff's apology and this remorse all came about only after the producers stepped in and Cliff was sent home (or was this just editing?). You'd think that with their reputations on the line (and in front of an extremely well respected chef no less!) that they would be more willing to apologize to all involved and try to make amends. And yes, Elia, Ilan and Sam should apologize in my opinion, since they participated and did nothing to stop this "prank."

Normally I wouldn't care (it's a show), and I'll refrain from saying any immature comments (it's crazy how some commenters can so personal on here, lol), but I'd just like to say that I don't think I've ever reacted this strongly to an episode of reality television. And I don't mean that in a good way. At all. More in the way of seriously considering not watching because it's just too hard to watch...
I just hate bullying and hazing (I'm sorry, but head shaving, grabbing people by the neck, and standing by and laughing while it's all happening is NOT "just a prank") in any form and to see it dealt with in such a casual manner is just very disturbing to me. Marcel came across as being the most mature and cool one about this situation. What feels very weird to me is that since last week, I'm not watching the show anymore to see talented people create or who wins, but rather to see if these people who seemingly have no perspective on how their actions may reflect on them to the outside world go on trying to act like a bad high school clique. Where's the professionalism?
(It's also horribly surreal that I'm saying this when some of these contestestants are 8 years+ older than me... scary.)

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:52 AM

Maya wrote:

I was very disappointed with this show and I feel that this could have been nipped in the bud early on, but let's face it--I guess you have to have drama for TV, right? Why not egg on this tension? I used to like this show much better but I do not care for their personal beefs. I went through middle school already--I don't want to see it on TV. I truely do not see what is so bad about Marcel, he is not any more annoying than a little brother. The behaviour was appalling, though I feel Betty instigated it in the beginning and she should be ashamed of herself--she is old enough to be his mother yet isn't acting like an adult.

Another thing I wonder is why is it necessary to have a model host? I love Padma and she is much more interesting and knowledgable than that robotic girl you had last season, but I cringe every time she is put in little outfits. Not only is it inappropriate attire for the kitchen, but she obviously knows her stuff--why demean her by putting her in a role where she really is just there to look pretty and to tell them to take their knives and go? I think it lessons the credibility of the show--I think you'd still have viewers if you didn't have a model to gawk at. What about having her wear something more presentable and contributing more so she can at least have a relevant part to the team and be taken seriously? Also, I love Ted Allen and would love to see him as a judge.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:00 AM

Lynda S wrote:

Dear Shauna,

Although I applaud your direct approach in what will be an onslaught of "hate mail", the fact that you determine Marcel's awakening to be "unpleasant" hopefully was merely British understatement. Imagine being abruptly awakened in the night by a big brute who tackles you to the ground for unexplained reasons and does not let go... If it were Elia instead of Marcel, I think the police would have been summoned and rightfully so. Cliff attacked Marcel, period. He should have been arrested. The bystanders (Sam lounging on a sofa nearby, Ilan laughing all the way and Elia for making her "movie") should have been hauled away as well. I hope Marcel sues the pants off of BRAVO.

BTW: Alcohol has played a major role in the Marcel treatment (ala Frank, now Cliff & co.)... Maybe it should be banned from future seasons. These people are obviously too immature to handle their booze.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:06 AM

janeyek wrote:

First let me say, I DO NOT envy your position as producer. You have alot of things to coordinate and edit so to try and condense hours of footage into a succinct episode that encapsulates the entire feeling of the challange is really quite a daunting task. I LOVED Top Chef last year and really looked forward with anticipation to this year's season. However, the quality of cooking and professionalism of the chefs chosen this year was sadly lacking. As we listen to the judges at the table, we hear the same refrain week after week noting the lack of technique, lack of innovative ideas, and mostly, lack of initiave to win. I am hoping that next season, a more professional group of applicants are chosen. This episode was really depressing and put the whole show in a very dismal, low class light (with the aura of Jerry Springer) which is a shame. As a teacher, I see this bullying on a daily basis and for Marcel to just leave the situation instead of "tattling" shows a lot of courage an character on his part...and as he has said at many of the judging sessions.."can we focus on the food". I have been seeng claims of racism from some of the viewers....oh come off it. If Cliff had been manhandled so violently I'm sure we would have seen Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson on some courthouse steps this morning decrying his treatment at the hands of the white racists. Cliff's actions had no color to them, they were just immature and loutish. Yes, there are highjinks in kitchens as there are in any work place environment but when they escalate to a level of personal manhandling, the line is definately crossed.
I am hoping that next year a more professional crop of applicants are chosen so that the focus will again be on the food served and not the personalities involved. Good luck!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:24 AM

N'muakolo wrote:

1. PLEEEEEEAAAAAAAAASSSSSSSSEEEEEEEEEEE stop with the product placement, especially in the quickfire challenge. It's irritating and it lowers the quality of the challenge. (What might they have done with more chocolate variety? There's nothing - in terms of challenge - to be gained by limiting them to nestle specifically.) And it's so irritating it makes me NOT want to buy Bailey's, Kraft, Nestle....

2. I disagree that the Cliff/Marcel incident made for good reality TV. The reason, mainly, is that I don't believe TC viewers are the juvenile type that want to watch hazing on TV. At least, even if they are, they aren't watching TC for that. It made me sick.It was awkward to watch. It was not enjoyable at all, and I just wanted it to stop. I watch TC for the cooking and the interesting challenges and for the cooking analysis by the judges. I really don't watch for the drama, especially disturbing drama like this. If this is what TC is about, I won't watch anymore. At this point I still have faith that TC will return to mostly cooking, smidgen of drama, and so I'll keep watching and hoping. But If last night's episode was indicative of TC's future, then my favorite show is going to be a show of the past. I only say this to highlight how far last night's episode was from good reality TV (good food tv anyway).

3. Otherwise, I loved the episode, especially the elimination challenge. I'm looking forward to next week!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:41 AM

JaMellison wrote:

What I want to know is why you never saw this coming? For weeks Marcel has been threatened by various contestants, including Frank saying that he was going to beat Marcel beyond recognition and Cliff and others saying they wanted to punch Marcel in the face. Why wasn't this behavior nipped in the bud right away instead of giving the impression that this type of behavior was condoned by not addressing it before it became physical?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 8:41 AM

Linda wrote:

You write about Elia and Ilan shaving their heads "I was furious with them as I felt it was kind of a juvenile prank to pull which undermined the dignity of the show." What? It wasn't a prank done to you: they cut their own hair.It was fun. What about Chef Tom? Are you REALLY furious with him? He's NEVER had any hair on the show!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:06 AM

Zoe wrote:

Here's a question for youXXXXXXX(Editor's Note: Innapropriate comments will be edited.)

If you claim that the producers "didn't know" because Marcel didn't "tell them", exactly who is the voice clearly audible off-camera during Cliff's mugging of a sleeping Marcel?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:22 AM

Kathy N wrote:

Please don't confuse this embarrassing episode for compelling. It was mortifying to watch and not at all what I come to Top Chef for. Of course if you happened, you had to show it, so the Cheftestants are to blame. But I hope it won't be a trend with the show. I watch for the creativity and skill shown by the chefs, not the so-called drama. All of this business with the scapegoating of Marcel is tedious, junior high school stuff that is the least interesting thing on the screen.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:24 AM

Chris Settele wrote:

Though I wasn't able to view the episode last night, I will soon remedy that misfortune. As I am a layal viewer (much to the chagrin of my family), I look forward to being amused at the antics alluded to insofar as Cliff is concerned.
If there are those who consider you to be a "talentless hack" and complain about your abilities, perhaps those inane folk should put their mouths where their opinion is and attempt to produce an episode with such a varied group of obviously talented people. Perhaps a few hours in the cauldron of temper and stubborn opinion would bring logic and truth to the mouths of the insipid.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:27 AM

Barb Cole wrote:

Good blog! Puts new insights into the show, as the others do! (and don't feel TOO bad, .. You must be fairly good in bed, if you've slept your way to the top, of Top Chef...you must have presesnted and plated well! ;o) ...)

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:32 AM

sf wrote:

sam ilan and elia are as guilty as cliff

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:05 AM

Carol wrote:

I understand why the whole Marcel situation was awful and juvenile, but what's so terrible about two people shaving their heads if they wanted to? Does it kill your fancy editing that badly?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:18 AM

gail gray wrote:

Why did you allow this brutality continue for so long. You had to know it was getting worse and worse.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:22 AM

Lotus wrote:

Hahaha...didn't realize you had a sense of humor "Although I won't be responding to questions like, “How did a talentless hack like you get this job?” Those questions will be answered in my forthcoming autobiography, “Sleeping your way to the top, my life in television.” That is too funny and gave me a chuckle.

No question that Cliff had to go. I don't know if it was the editing or what but it made me sick to my stomach to watch last night. As someone who has stood up for Cliff on these blogs, despite all the calls for him to go, I was particularly appalled. Despite other faults I thought he was more mature than that. It's as if he let himself get egged on and got left holding the bag. I would've expected this more from Ilan, but I don't think he would've been able to hold Marcel down. Elia was supposed to be his friend. That's how even in the real world, what starts out as a prank can sometimes have disastrous results. What if Marcel had snapped and gotten physical in return? The whole scene was bad, distasteful, inappropriate.

For the rest of it, I think Elia can get in over her head. She just won't listen to constructive criticism. She didn't agree with the taste. There she goes again. And another meltdown. When things don't go right she doesn't seem to be able to regather and improvise. Last night it was the other guys who helped her pull it together because surely it looked as if she was going to quit right then and there. Is that what would happen if she were in charge of catering a big event?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:24 AM

Disgusted wrote:

"The chefs know that there is someone on the production team sleeping in a room nearby and that they can go to them at any time if they have a problem. Marcel could have done this but did not."

Excuse me. Are you really suggesting that Marcel was to blame in some way in a situation in which he was assaulted by a bully that had told the producers, on camera, on at least one occasion, that he wanted to do physical harm to Marcel? Are you suggesting that Marcel erred in not following some kind of production protocol when he was dragged from sleep and held down while his fellow contestants (and quite possibly members of production) did nothing to assist him? You really are quite a prize.

There isn't a doubt in my mind that your first reaction on finding out about what had happened was an illicit little thrill in your stomach at how great this footage was going to be. I would have thought, however, that in the ensuing months you would have had enough wherewithal to think about how this blog entry would go. And that the first thing you wrote would be disapproval of the incident. Perhaps omit the not so subtle dig at how Marcel, alone in an apartment of people who've watched this escalate for weeks and did nothing, assaulted and filmed while being assaulted, felt that the best thing for him to do would be to lock himself in a bathroom without any kind of blanket for the night. That says a hell of a lot more about what kind of assistance Marcel had learned he could expect from production than it does about Marcel. It says a lot about you that he didn't come to you.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:31 AM

Doc wrote:

That wasn't a prank, it was an assault. With a guy at least twice his size on top of him, how was Marcel supposed to get help from the production person sleeping nearby? The other three are complicit, and not just because they didn't stop it, they egged it on. In your quest to make "compelling tv," you producers have apparently tolerated -- if not encourage -- the other contestants' escalating dislike of Marcel all season, so you're complicit too. Bravo and its lawyers can try to spin its damage control, but you folks should be ashamed of what you let happen. You turned a good cooking show into just Surreal Life trash.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:52 AM

Lonny wrote:

So lets see you defend the "Classless" act of The who hates Marcel the most vote... I hope Bravo has the integrity to totally and completly re-vamp the show for season 3...
I think the DA in the county this assualt took place in should take a hard look at filing charges on all involved...
Please Bravo get rid of these people and give your viewers back the Top Chef they loved from last season...

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:55 AM

blarg wrote:

I'm just curious. Had Ilan not taped the whole thing, there would not have been any evidence of Cliff's behavior at all? If so, it makes you wonder what other kind of crap has been going on. Marcel certainly doesn't endear himself, but I respect the fact that he kept it to himself and seemed genuinely sad that Cliff was leaving this way. Why didn't those morons destroy the tape or throw the camera off the balcony? If I were Cliff I'd rather have to pay for a $20,000 camera than be humiliated on national TV.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:04 AM

Liz wrote:

While I understand not sending home a "next worst," considering the comments on virtually each judge blog thus far, why was Ilan and/or Elia not sent home or at least "punished" a bit more for their childish behavior of the shaved heads? As Tom noted to Sam at the Table, that's not how someone running a kitchen (let alone someone competing for a HUGE opportunity in front of field professionals and national television!) should behave. Sad...

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:07 AM

Marge wrote:

I don't understand how you could keep Sam, Ilan on the show after their despicable behavior toward Marcel. I applaud you for eliminating Cliff but Sam and Ilan are just as quilty if not more and should have been eliminated as well. They have been verbally abusing Marcel for weeks as well as Cliff and Betty. Their verbal abuse just laid the ground work for the physical attack by Cliff. Rewarding Sam and Ilan by sending them to Hawaii made me sick. They are all quilty and should be disqualified from the competition. Your show has no character and moral principal by keeping them. If they win top chef, I am not going to continue watching this show. Shame on you for not standing up for what is morally, ethically correct and instead choosing to sacrifice principal for ratings.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:10 AM

Bandbabe wrote:

Thanks for clearing up why the contestants had a camera. To me, it was strange because throughout the season the footage shown was shot by camera crew. If a cameraperson was shooting this and did not stop it, that a SERIOUS breach in professionalism. I think Ilan should have been sent home along with Cliff, because he continued to film what was happening and even followed Marcel all the way to bathroom laughing and mocking him. I also think Sam and Elia should have been more severely reprimanded for simply watching/laughing while one of their fellow contestants was being assaulted. This episode was bad for everyone around. With a show like Top Chef you want to focus on the food but when contestants cross the line they should be dismissed. It was the right call to get rid of Cliff, but he is not the only chef that should have been sent home. Part of being a Top Chef is leadership and professionalism. What Sam, Ilan, and Cliff were a part of (and to a lesser degree Elia) was unacceptable and in the real world they would have been fired they did what they did to Marcel to a co-worker.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:20 AM

Audrey wrote:

Last nite Show was too funny in lots of ways.. I feel bad Cliff went to far and don't think it was his make up to do this. think drinking was factor and also Marcel getting on everyones last nerve. Think Ellia should came forth and said it was her idea to do Marcel's hair any ways , she suggested it .Like she said they don't really know here.. why judges ask Sam why he didn't do anything.. Hell they all same age , not kids . why they have to have one supervisor . Duh! Think Sam and Ilan should of gone on and rest gone home.. they the 2 top chefs not the others at all. Think they sent all cause they like the drama of Marcel..

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:26 AM

Rovetta wrote:

Chip Bennett, if there had been only a passing reference to Cliff's departure the producers would be getting raked over the coals for not explaining why he was asked to leave.

As for the person who said this was to be expected, that's a bit silly. These are supposed to be adult professionals. While they had their problems with Marcel, they should have known better than to allow it to get physical. I agree that the others should have at least been reprimanded but Cliff crossed the line. He's 28 years old. If he can't control himself then that's on him, not the others.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:39 AM

Mark wrote:

Let me add my voice to those who are pointing out that you should have seen this coming. Marcel had been threatened with violence at least twice, including Cliff's prescient "I wanted hit him about five times" remark. That, coupled with the other harassment, some of which was extremely nasty, went largely unchallenged. What we saw, in other words, was a case study in bully behavior, and its escalation to actual violence was inevitable. Padma made the connection to Lord of the Flies, which was apt, though why didn't she (or the producers) follow through on the implications of that identification?

I can understand why Cliff boggled when he was told to leave, because Frank had gotten away with something pretty similar, and he (Cliff), Betty and Ilan had gotten away with their bulling for some time. Why would he think this would be any different?

I will confess that I was looking forward to the episode, but after seeing it, I'm just sad--that I wasted my time on such ugliness, at the way people act, and that people who act that way are rewarded as often as they are punished.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:40 AM

Nan wrote:

The show has assistants, cameramen or they have been called babysitters,(which in TC2 they needed more than they had)
you can not tell me that you didn't know that something like this was bound to happen. Marcel should have won by default!
The rest of them are as guilty as cliff.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:44 AM

LH wrote:

This episode was absolutely disgusting. As a producerof what was a semi-decent show, you should be ashamed of yourself, for letting things get to that point. All of the contestants should have been thrown out on their asses for what they did to Marcel, and the police should have been called as soon as you had seen the tape.

I can't beleive how cavalier you sound in your blog about the whole incident.

How embarassing for you and for Bravo to be part of this. I guess it shows what kind of person you are and shows what type of things Bravo is willing to show for the sake of "good tv".

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:55 AM

anne wrote:

I think Bravo should rethink some of the production
schedules and situtations set up for the cast.

- Stop the cameras in the bedrooms, let people get a decent
amt. of sleep.
- Stop stressing the cast out by always being in their faces.
- I read that they could not have air conditioning on, tv playing,
music playing, or any normal past times because it would get in the way of the sound recording. Stop this. Allow these people some off time to decompress besides resorting to alcohol.
- Inform the cast that their overall behavior will be taken into consideration, both on and off the kitchen time. I want to work for a chef who is a decent human being. You should take that into consideration.

You have to take some responsibility for setting up these situations. You need to make it a better work and preforming environment and maybe these kinds of things would not happen.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:05 PM

Carla wrote:

Just a comment about the judging: It seems to me that the cumulative performance of each chef should be taken into account when deciding who goes home. The way it is now, even if a chef has performed well on the preceding shows, they could still be elimiated if they have a bad day and really blow a challenge. On the other hand, a mediocre chef might manage to hang somewhere in the middle week after week and still make it to the finals. The way it is now, the chefs don't really need to focus on winning - they just need to try to not lose. (An observation that Tom C has repeatedly made).

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:06 PM

Christi Leach wrote:

One thing that's being overlooked here is Marcel's role. I'm not 'blaming the victim', but doesn't it seem it odd to anyone that he didn't tell the producers what happened and then only causally brought it up? I think part of him wanted this to happen. He has spent the entire season antagonizing and goating the other contestants. And what happens when one of them finally blows?? Everyone, even the people he has tormented, feel sorry for him!!! One of the common 'laws' of psychology is that when you fell sorry for someone, you make them the most powerful person. And that's what happens... Elia comforts him, Padma apologizes, Ilan and Sam are silent for once, Cliff even hugs him. Watch Marcel's face at Judge's Table. The man is eating it up, and it's because things are finally going his way.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:06 PM

connie wrote:

Shauna:

Are you aware their is a law centered around employee rights, and employer rights, centered around abuse and bullying in the work place, and that a suit can be brought against offending party?

Most of the season, bullying, verbal abuse, has been centered around Marcel, by others, yet producers, judges, no one has stepped up and even attempted to resolve the issue.

I always say to others who seem to let certain negative actions go on, without much interference, and just "stand by" and let actions continue, "Would you tolerate such actions done to you, and how would you feel if said actions were done to you?"

To even suggest that Marcel could have "come next door and talked to producers" isn't even the point. The point is, a big guy (Cliff) held down with his strength, another person, put his hands on another person, while others stood by and did nothing, except laugh and film the whole thing, and this is BULLYING, nothing less, nothing more.

All those involved in incident should have been sent home. That would leave, it seems, perhaps Elia (don't really know how involved she was in alot of it, and of course, Marcel)

I'm disgusted, and very ashamed of producers (all), judges, those involved with filming the show, for letting this go on for almost the whole season. Its not been a show about food, really, its been a show about how abuse, bullying, ugly nature(s) of people at work, and all of you need to be called on the carpet for this, and come what may.

I can't believe Marcel didn't show some aggression towards the others for this; but, when attacked by others, repeatedly and often, a common reaction is withdrawing and feeling passive and unable to fight back. Marcel deserves "Top Chef" for just having gone through this, come out alive and sane, and not getting any assistance, support from people on show who could have given him that, but choose not to.

I feel shame for those of you who stood by and let this happen, did nothing. My hope would be for those of you directly involved in this, to look at the tapes, really look at your accountability in all this, and make a decision to change how you think about human beings and fair treatment for all.

This ole world can be changed one person at a time, and the old addage, "Do unto others as you would have done unto you" is still the beacon light to head towards.

Connie

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:09 PM

Adam wrote:

Was the original plan to just eliminate one contestant, or did the Judges have the discretion to send anywhere from 2-4 people to the finale?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:10 PM

Michael wrote:

Undermine the dignity of the show...

Let's see,

Otto and the lychee's
Frank going ballastic on Marcel and threatening him
Sam going ballastic on Marcel in a public store
How many people have been thrown under the bus?
All the unnecessary fingerpointing and backstabbing at Judges Table.

Shall I continue?

The dignity of this show has been lost most of the season because of the immaturity of the chefs selected.

I also don't agree that all the footage filmed came from the video camera. Elia wouldn't have panned it so smoothly. I think some of the footage was either captured by a cameraman or by hidden cameras if you have them. The giveaway is that in some of the scenes you see the record and in others you don't. How do you explain that?

I am so disappointed in this season and in you as a producer for not doing a much better job of stepping in and controlling the situation sooner. Instead, you air fine drama to make your cheap rating points.

I've gotten to the point I may not watch the rest of the season and if next season starts out like this one, forget it. My TV will be off. My wife won't even watch the show anymore. She says if she wants to watch childish behavior, she'll go to a playground full of children.

I was rooting for some of the remaining people like Sam and Elia but not now. They were all guilty to some degree and should have been admonished more on TV. That might and I say might have redeemed your show. Instead, your show is sinking into a disgusting show that's not about food but ill behavior.

Clean it up or pack your knives!!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:13 PM

Ian Scuffling wrote:

I have to agree with you - who could have seen this coming?

After all, it's not like you don't coop up a bunch of total strangers, make them compete in ridiculous challenges, subject them to arbitrary and inconsistent standards of evaluation, reward colorful personalities over skill and competence, and then run polls every other week asking who the villains and heroes are.

Oh wait, you do.

Yeah, who could have seen this coming?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:16 PM

Morgaine Swann wrote:

To the people who wonder why the producers were angry when Elia and Ilan shaved their heads:

Haven't you figured out yet that these people were hired in part because of their looks? They don't submit resumes to get this job, they submit video tapes. Bravo contracted to have the people they hired, not a couple of skin heads who assault another contestant. They had no business shaving their heads during the span of their contract. This is show business.

To the Producers: I swore off Project Runway because you awarded the prize to a creep who should have been disqualified. Now you advertise and minimize a sadistic assault on someone who really did nothing to deserve it. If you've completely abandoned your integrity and humanity, please let me know now before I waste more time on this drivel. I tune in to see creative people rise to challenges, not to see trash. These shows are supposed to be about artists creating art, not violence and abuse.

Look at the bizarre challenges you've presented the chefs with this season - you've had them making food that's inedible - vending machine fare, offal, Kraft crap sauces, canned food, raw food- how about letting them cook something someone wants to eat?

I hope Marcel finds a great attorney - you've all been complicit in humiliating him and $100,000 is only a fraction of what he deserves. "Who hates Marcel the most"? Be ashamed. I hope you're all fired.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:37 PM

Gladiator wrote:

I think you're all idiots for allowing this to happen. You set it up and when the contestants go after the bait, why are you surprised? If you cast someone in the villain's role as you did this season with Marcel, don't be shocked when the others reach a boiling point when dealing with him. No, he didn't handle this well, he hasn't handled anything well, or haven't you been watching the footage that you air?

A question out of curiosity: did Ilan willingly give up his camera? And if he did, or say he did, why would he part with incriminating evidence?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:41 PM

lon wrote:

Judges and producers do not see every action that we, as viewers, do. They often know something much later when it is too late to do something about it.

I doubt the judges, for example, saw at least some of the video until it aired on TV. By their own statements, they concentrate on the food and limit their contact with the contestants to the food servings.

I think, given this seasons performances, that the decision to keep a hands off by the Top Chef production staff and judges has only produced a poor season.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 12:42 PM

TCGroupie wrote:

Shauna,

Thank you for the inciteful blog entry (with a hilarious last jab at your potential critics. I suppose you need to keep a sense of humor in this business). I love this show. I watch the food channel for recipes (although there's been some lovely ones on TC as well).

Question: was it Ilan holding the camera when Marcel took a swing?

Still think Elia looks great with her head shaved...

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:06 PM

Michael wrote:

One last comment.

You complain about the two who saved their heads. How can you do that when you had Chef Mohawk Hair as a guest judge and his rude behavior?

If you don't complain about the actions or behavior of the judges, how can you complain about the contestants shaving their heads?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:12 PM

Lisa wrote:

Wow... people really seem to hate you. Not that I blame them. Yours is easily the worst blog on this website and you come off rather condescending. Whatever you guys did season 1, do it again. As far as I'm concerned, Season 2 has been nothing short of a failure. The entire production staff should be ashamed.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:56 PM

Cindy Huber wrote:

Yeah, it was an ugly incident, but you know what, life can get ugly...and really good people (like Cliff) can make dumb mistakes with a little alcohol--been there--done that (i was once a country music dj who did bar appearances)...Will it make me less then a fan? HECK NO!!!
I started watching your show last year (i got addicted the very second show) when a friend made a comment about a new show that was like "survivor, except with chefs"...but, here's the reality...i can't cook to save my life, in fact, for my daughters birthday i broiled her birthday cake...(and you know, it wasn't that bad!...especially if you like cake batter with a nice crispy crust)...BUT...since watching your show...i have really tried to learn how to cook and expand my horizons farther then "Monday frozen pizza night"...i now host Wednesday night "Top Chef" night at my house and have horrified my guests with my attempts at Elia's chicken from a couple weeks ago...(it turned out perfect on top but raw at the bottom--i think it was my choice of pan)...the bottom line is i started watching your show as a lark, and now as a result i'm trying to learn how to cook...My husband, son, assorted neighbors and I LOVE your show...Cindy

posted on January 18, 2007 at 1:59 PM

Lisa wrote:

What is up with all this "text message who hates marcel the most". Earlier in the season it was "text message who you think the meanest or most evil chef is". This type of activity is ridiculous and has contributed to the theme of immaturity so prominent all season long. You all are hacks. next season please try to show less of people brushing their teeth, sleeping, or getting drunk and show more of judge's table discussion,cooking, preparation, and techniques in the kitchen. I guarantee you that if you cut out all this you would have a good 5-7 minutes per show to add to filming productive activity rather than showcasing the immaturity, backstabbing, and fighting, also known as the debacle that is Top Chef season 2.
a disgusted viewer in florida

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:06 PM

Irma wrote:

Hello Shauna,

My thoughts TO YOU on this Marcel messy episode: FOR SHAME!

For blogger Christi Leach: Your theory is sicko! Sure, "blame the victim". Marcel may not have spoken up because he may have felt embarrassed by the attack. Make no mistake, he was attacked in his sleep.

These fellow contestants commited a crime. I hope the authorities were watching the show too. I hope they take action against the "group of bullies".

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:22 PM

H.A.L. wrote:

Uh, Shauna,

In light of what transpired between Cliff & co. versus Marcel, it might not have been very wise to have a viewer poll titled, "Who Hates Marcel the Most?" It seems, by keeping that "unpleasant entry", it is YOU!

Hopefully, Marcel's lawsuit reaps him much more that the paltry 100K Bravo awarded to one of the schmucks who ultimately did win the thing. (Based upon their co-conspiratoring mob mentality, neither Sam or Ilan are Top Chefs.)

posted on January 18, 2007 at 2:33 PM

pierpont wrote:

This is the first time ever I have written on a blog, and that it is for a reality television show is troubling. Nevertheless...First, it is important that Marcel knows that he has behaved with class throughout the show. As far as I can see, he has been kind and sincere. I hope he can keep that up. I couldn't. Second, to the extent you care, if you continue with the Hate poll, I will not watch Top Chef again. I will also complain to Bravo directly. Hopefully, I do not need to explain why.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:04 PM

Katherine wrote:

I loved the first season of this show and was expecting the second installment to be just as good. This was not the case and last nights episode sealed my decision to not continue watching. Bravo has gone the way of MTV/VHI with its tactics in trying to gain viewers through focusing on the Drama than the actual cooking itself. I don't believe AT ALL that this was just a prank. Marcel was held down against his will - it definitely did not seem funny to him. You should have kicked off not only Cliff, but Sam, Elia, and Ilan as well. NO ONE, no matter how annoying, deserves this kind of treatment. Any integrity this show had is pretty much destroyed through the production staffs action/inaction as well as those of these bullying contestants.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:05 PM

Deborah wrote:

YOU MAKE ME SICK!!! I won't reiterate in too much detail what others have said so eloquently about how you have allowed this to continue and escalate while doing nothing, and that this sort of situation always escalates to the point of physical violence (doesn't anyone involved with your show know anything about group dynamics, bullying and mob mentality?), production upping the ante with those mean-spirited polls and that after this incident Marcel should have instantly been declared "Top Chef" and the others summarily dismissed from the competition.

But all of the above statements are true. Some of the most twisted and grotesque behavior I have ever witnessed.

In addition, your "blame the victim" remarks about how he could have gone to the production person sleeping in the apartment with them, sounds like blaming a woman for getting raped because of what she is wearing.

I think Marcel has acted with far more maturity and more like a Top Chef than anyone else this season BY FAR. He's been emotionally and psychologically abused almost since day one and physically threatened many times as well... to his face or in contestant interviews. UNACCEPTABLE!!!

I also think he should hire a lawyer and sue the pants off Bravo.

I have been a die hard fan of Project Runway and Top Chef and was looking forward to Top Design, but after watching the horrifying and sickening events of this season's Top Chef, I will be tuning out. I will be checking back on this season in the fervent hope that Marcel pulled it off and won the competition, but after that I'm done.

I see from the comments on all the blogs that I am far from alone in my decision.

Shame on each and every one of you. Judges and Lee Ann included.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:10 PM

Lisa wrote:

The dignity of this show is perhaps gone forever because of what has occurred this season. I don't where the entire blame can be placed for this. The producers, the networks, or the actual contestants? Perhaps a little blame goes to each. But someone needs to step forward and say that what happened to Marcel was unacceptable. Period. Stop. Regardless of whatever personality quirks he may or may not have. Sam, Ilan, and Elia should have been asked to leave as well as they were just as guilty in their complicity and inaction as Cliff was in his attack.

This show is disgusting. Harold should win this season by default as well since he still has shown more class that the entirety of this cast combine. Seriously. This was pathetic and never should have happened.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:11 PM

rhonda wrote:

It makes me angry that most of the blogs claim that Cliff's behavior was "clearly" meant to be just a prank. In more than one episode this season, Cliff had talked about wanting to "smack" Marcel, that if he had been Frank on the day of the toothbrush on the floor thing that he would have "smacked Marcel in the head," etc. etc. Cliff clearly disliked Marcel, and "clearly" part of him wanted to be as forceful as he was because it had been building in him. As a producer, you should not be apologizing for Cliff's violent behavior, which injured Marcel emotionally and physically, leaving him with rug burns on his body.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:14 PM

georiapat wrote:

I find it very interesting that the people on the show who had businesses were almost glad to be eliminated...in Mia's case, requested it. I wonder if having to deal with the juvenile behavior had anything to do with it. I can see where a seasoned professional wouldn't want their name attached to this group!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 3:31 PM

JerseyB wrote:

From the beginning, my heart went out to Marcel. Not many could have withstood the rude, mean and malicious behavior from the other "chefs".

Seeing the bully, Cliff, man-handle Marcel, I almost cried. How could your show let that physical assult even happen??? It was the right decision to get rid of Cliff, although I thought it was certainly "tempered" and a nice way to say "good bye". I agree with others that Sam and Ilan should have gone as well, since they did NOTHING but to stop the brutality, and even encouraged the whole assult. They do not deserve the chance to be the "Top Chef" ... If Marcel has a good attorney, I hope he intends to take legal action for the assult and verbal harrassment that he has endured. He should win the prize just for "endurance".

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:13 PM

Ann wrote:

This episode made me ill. You should be ashamed of yourselves for putting this horrid episode on tv and for the cruel poll you put up. You helped create this situation. Everyone who is in a position of responsibility on this show showed terrible judgment and behaved in a way that is absolutely reprehensible.

I hope you pay attention to the feedback you are getting and next year put a show on that is about cooking.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:14 PM

Carla wrote:

What is up with the "Watch What Happens" bit that debuted on this web-site following last night's show? It does seem a bit curious that Cliff was given front-and center attention. While on the surface it looks like an attempt to let everyone know that "all is now well", "no harm was done", "we shook hands and made up", etc, etc, it seems to me that it was more of a way to ensure that no legal action would be brought on. Speaking of which, why was the ugly fight even included in the footage? I sense a big publicity spin...

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:29 PM

Anita wrote:

What is up with the "Watch What Happens" bit that debuted on this web-site following last night's show? It does seem a bit curious that Cliff was given front-and center attention. While on the surface it looks like an attempt to let everyone know that "all is now well", "no harm was done", "we shook hands and made up", etc, etc, it seems to me that it was more of a way to ensure that no legal action would be brought on. Speaking of which, why was the ugly fight even included in the footage? I sense a big publicity spin...

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:40 PM

AG wrote:

Wow. My third episode and it'll be my last. My mistake! Thought this was a show about competitive cooking. Good luck to Marcel (the only contestant whose dishes seemed to be pretty consistently challenging; if that's what they're doing at Joel Robuchon @ The Mansion, I'm definitely making a reservation next time I'm in Vegas) but if I want to see bullying and playground assaults, I'm sure I can find that sort of thing on Spike, or maybe over at the neighborhood middle school.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:42 PM

meg wrote:

The fact that you chose to use the "who hates Marcel" poll, knowing what was coming in the episode, says everything that needs to be said about you, the entire production, and Bravo.

The word isn't "compelling", dear, it is "shameful".

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:48 PM

Marta wrote:

1. Why did you veto Chef Tom's decision to send home Cliff, Sam, Ilan and Elia? He obviously recognized that all 4 were culpable in the assault on Marcel.

2. Why did you edit the show to make it appear as if Elia and Ilan shaved their hair before Marcel was assaulted, when, in fact, events happened in the reverse order?

3. How did the above decisions preserve the "integrity" of the show?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 4:50 PM

Tad wrote:

after the seven deadly sins' episode, i decided to give top chef just one more episode before i stopped watching. the restaurant challenge as a concept is one that i, and i think most viewers enjoy, so i decided to watch again this week despite my displeasure with cliff's behavior during the restaurant challenge.

what i find very hard to believe is that you were mad at ilan and elia for shaving their heads because you “felt it was kind of a juvenile prank to pull which undermined the dignity of the show” but yet you later called cliff's physical assault of marcel as making for a “compelling” episode. really?

i appreciate that it you call it a compelling story that you didn't want to tell, but to use such words as 'compelling' and 'holy grail' in regards to this episode in the first place, is quite frankly the final insult. i'm done with your show, and i don't care who wins. the fact that anyone could call last nights episode compelling, especially when that person is the producer, just shows what little 'dignity' your show truly has.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 5:02 PM

Andrea wrote:

I do hope you answer this question... Whose decision was it to air the question, 'Who Hates Marcel the Most?' during this episode?

It really made Bravo TV seem like they were making light of this horrible incident. But then, that doesn't surprise me, given your "holy grail" remark. I bet the producers are all drooling over the 'buzz' this episode created. Tacky, at best. Complicit, at worst.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 5:14 PM

AG wrote:

Wow. My third episode and it'll be my last. My mistake! Thought this was a show about competitive cooking. Good luck to Marcel (the only contestant whose dishes seemed to be pretty consistently challenging

posted on January 18, 2007 at 5:16 PM

L.Williams wrote:

I don't really believe that this is a story you didn't want to tell even though it's the "holy grail" for reality tv producers, like you're somehow obligated to tell us because your show is so real and you're not one of the people who decided to exploit this for ratings.

I mean, were you surprised by the Bravo poll question and option presented during the episode, asking the viewer if "you" were the one who hated Marcel the most? Were you surprised when Mr. Cohen tried to leverage this event to launch some kind of online chat? Was it a shock when the entire season was built around this stupid everyone vs. Marcel storyline, culminating in this particular moment?

I don't believe you could have anticipated or should have done something to prevent this. But what the show did- what you as part of the production team did- with it after the fact is truly sick, and not at all consistent with what was said in this blog.

On the other hand, the show made me realize how much I've missed MTV reality competitions over the past couple years. So thank you, sincerely, for providing me with a show that substitutes nicely.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 5:18 PM

Meghan wrote:

Not living up to the name Bravo, are you?
I really enjoyed Top Chef last season and have been really under whelmed with the show this season. Yes, I want drama...but, not playground drama. Bring on the food! You need to get mature people who will let their food do that talking and cut out the childish act. How are we supposed to care about any of these people when they prove themselves to be so unlikable? Being in the food industry, I know that chefs do not always have the best personalities (hence staying in the kitchen). But, these people are out right pompous jerks. The only person we end up caring about a little is the one they are all picking on.

I would rather like a contestant for what they have shown in their cooking, and not know that they have the maturity level of a first grader. I think I will miss the last episode.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 5:26 PM

SM wrote:

I have to agree with many sentiments here, there was extreme bad taste on the part of the production staff on many levels. #1 the Marcel bashing should have been quelled off-air, without the need to escalate it in a Real World type setting, earlier in the show. Clearly it was allowed to continue for "compelling television" when it's insulting to viewers. #2 This final little histerionics was unneccesary, especially to even to put on-air... so they filmed it, doesn't make it worthy of television. Cliff was going to be eliminated anyway, simply have him eliminated without the fake "oh gee, Ilia and marcel are eliminated even though 4 are going to Hawaii" nonsense. That was lame. If you're pushing to make this trash tv, and have it go off air soon, fine. It's a good show, more interesting than Hell's Kitchen, especially since that show employed the cliched "Chefs are all insane tyrannical perfectionists" spin. Fans enjoy the show, as do I, so please take a new tack to how you edit and produce the show if you want to keep your fanbase, not to mention advertisers.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 5:49 PM

Amelia wrote:

I had to throw in my two cents. Firstly I think you can't judge people on tv.Meet them first, then judge. I see many hideously ignorant blogs - get some perspective, people. Don't judge the producers or anyone else when you aren't part of the process. Of course the Chef's BEHAVIOR can be judged, but not their personalities.

My big questions are: is Marcel guzzling some serotonin or what?? He appears to be one of the most composed and mellow guys I have ever seen.

First Betty does her immature screaming at him, unbecoming of a 44 year old, then Frank says he will beat him up. Then Ilan torments him and says he wanted to punch him in the face.....and then Cliff.

When I was a kid people weren't as litigious as they are now, and people wrestled and messed around. But what I saw happen with Cliff was somehow more sinister and creepy, I'm not sure why.

Anyway my point is, if I were an employer, I would hire Marcel in a second because of his composure. Although I don't cook, I am inspired by Marcel. If only we all could be that calm.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:17 PM

kate wrote:

i simply could not believe my eyes. without a doubt, they are all at fault. i thought elia was marcel's friend and it appears she was the one holding the camera.

i can't really say anymore, i normally like to comment on the food but no matter how good the judges said it tasted, your show has left an awful "taste" in my mouth. if the clips you showed us over the weeks, the guys taking turns screaming at marcel. were aired i can only imagine what was not aired.

don't the people holding the camera's have some kind of obligation to be "human beings" and say for example "whoa frank, your tooth brush was near the kitchen sink and it should not of been left there, don't threaten marcel." you let it get to this point, and i personally feel your staff holds some portion of the blame for what we saw last evening.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:25 PM

Amelia wrote:

I'm disturbed by some of these comments that are so accusatory of the producers etc, if you're not there and the show is edited don't assume you know if the show is being run responsibly.

Stop screaming about the judge's decisions. Can you taste the food on your tv? I didn't think so.

When I was a kid I worked with horses and we would get the hell kicked out of us, but no one sued like people do today. We are living in an extremely litigious society, which in a way is good because people are forced to think twice before they act like idiots.

However, while all of us have messed around before, this was creepier somehow. And I generally don't judge people that I don't know, but I'm impressed by Marcel's amazingly calm demeanor. I hope he takes some insane risks in the next show and shows his creativity as well.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:38 PM

teacher wrote:

Some earlier poster called the issue of alcohol the "elephant in the room." OK, but if that's true, then "identity" is the rhinoceros. If I were just to describe the incident without any kind of judgement I could say that the African American man assaulted the self-confessed virgin who perhaps has some questions about his sexuality. Add to that the fact that the one girl is the one who keeps making desserts when she doesn't want to, and I'd say the whole thing does mirror a junior high locker room, a frat house, etc. I don't think Cliff is a bad guy or that race had anything to do with anything directly. There is a phenomenon on reality shows, however, where the African-American contestants come off as angry. Perhaps there are things for the producers to think about along these lines. I was really unnerved by last night's episode. Frankly, the thing seemed vaguely sexual... a boy is awakened at night, pinned to the floor, and others look on... Quite troubling. The producers should sit down and talk behind closed doors what messages are being communicated about race, gender, sexuality, and violence. And I agree that the "who hates Marcel?" poll made you all look like huge hypocrites...Do you disapprove of the Marcel bashing or are you exacerbating it?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:47 PM

Mia wrote:

Hi,

Question about Editing:

I've seen freeze frames where Elia clearly HAS ALL HER HAIR and is laughing while Marcel angrily leaves the room AFTER the attack.

Why was it edited to imply that she & Ilan shaved their heads first then everyone decided to prank Marcel as an afterthought - when the opposite happened?

Is it because one of the three bullies wins and you thought it would look "better" if they didn't laugh and bond AFTER humiliating Marcel?

I would really like to know.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:48 PM

Ashley wrote:

I hope Marcel comes around and eventually decides to sue you. I know some lawyers are probably just drooling over what happened and are dying to approach Marcel about it.

You screwed up. All of your people did. And you let it happen too. Marcel should sue you, Bravo itself and Cliff. Hope you're happy. You just lost a ton of viewers.

Just one question and I hope you answer it:

Do you really think you deserve to have another season of this?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 6:50 PM

Mary wrote:

1. I now mute the tv every time Padma speaks because I can't bear to have any more products shoved down my throat. I understand sponsers for the Quickfire. I understand the beauty shots of the Rav 4's as they pull up to the lovely locations. But every other word out of the woman's mouth is a corporate plug and it's nauseating. Put your foot down and say enough's enough.

2. Am I to understand no one is allowed to change their hairstyle while on the show? If you're bald at the initial interview are you allowed in?

3. These contestants are young. They are under alot of pressure. They were dumb enough to ask for a camera to shoot their drunken antics. They are all responsible for the evening's events. And all of it should have been left on the cutting room floor.

4. Is there no seasoned producer in the edit bay? Seems to me that priorities for air this year are #1: product placement. #2: chefs acting immature. #3: anything that made Top Chef interesting last year. Where's the food?! Why do the contestants choose the ingredients they choose? Our only clue so far is that Sam is diabetic. Other than that, we know next to nothing.

I watch this show each week and look forward to seeing it. This week I Tivo'd it because of the promos. At this point I'll also Tivo the finale and probably just skip to the end. Make sure when Padma announces the Glad Rav4 Kenmore Nestle Kraft yada yada yada winner she gets every product in!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:07 PM

Patty wrote:

Is everyone at Top Chef on drugs. How dare you blame Marcel in any way for this mess of a show. In one of the judge's blogs - he says Marcel has probably not been liked since his early years and now you blame him for not finding someone after he was attacked and had to sleep on the cold bathroom floor without a blanket. The show should end - Marcel should get the prize - the remaining three hyenas - Sam, Elia and Ilan should go. Your comments are unbelievable - please take a step back - every chef on this show was obnoxious, rude, arrogant - much more so than Marcel - but every little thing he did was blown way out of proportion. Sam and Bettye were the very worst - and if Sam wins - I hope he suffers from a bad reputation because he is horrible - he is not a leader.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:12 PM

Cie Kay wrote:

It's one thing for a person to shave his or her own head. It's quite another for someone to take a man in his sleep and pin him to the floor with the intent of physically assaulting him. Cliff is a criminal. No ifs, ands, or buts. Sam, Ilan, and Elia are his accomplices. ALL of them should have been sent home.

As for behaving like "a perfect gentleman," Cliff will eventually add his name to the rolls of perfect gentlemen who currently serve time in prison for assault, battery, rape, and murder. Remember, Jeffrey Dahmer was also a perfect gentleman, once he was caught.

You failed utterly as the producer of "Top Chef." I hope that everyone who viewed this travesty of a show will join me in writing to NBC/Bravo and asking for not only your resignation, but that of Tom Colicchio as well. He didn't encourage his contestants as much as he irritated and tortured them, and he clearly played favorites, pitting one against another by inquiring of them, "Who do YOU think should go home?" That was not THEIR decision to make. It was Colicchio's. He blatantly abused his power, and he should pay for the consequences.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:13 PM

SM wrote:

To Amelia, I have every right to judge the production of the show because they are the final filter as to what goes to air. I'm sorry if I am not privvy to their workday, and how much control they had over this very childish incident, which realistically is being somewhat overblown all over the internet (to the advantage of the producers) but they did give them a camera, and use the footage. I can judge cooks on their food, producers on their aired material. I was enticed into watching the show based on a compelling concept, personalities and their interplay certainly adds to the entertainment factor, but there's a point you can't be "objective" or a fly on the wall and have to take responsibility for what your are producing and giving to the public. I have a hard time believing any self respecting high level chef will want to judge on this show in the future if this keeps up.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:22 PM

Cousette wrote:

Bravotv is lucky. It was "only" Marcel being attacked. What if it had been a "boys night" prank and they raped Elia? Think that would have been funny? Would you have shown that on tv just for ratings.
Marcel demonstrated considerable maturity and character by NOT running to that assistant sleeping down the hall.
I would have called the police and had all 3 of the other male chefs arrested. What about Elia's part in this? Was she in the room? Or already passed out in her own room. Wasn't she the instigator of the shaving of heads.
I HATE season 3 and I think heads should roll - from the Top Chefs through the Production staff.
Who got the camera and decided on NOT deleting the footage. OK for that bit of inegrity. bleah

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:25 PM

jack wrote:

Hi, this show is an example of what is right & wrong in reality
t.v. We get very little education of the dishes & designs & more than we want of the (melo)drama. Drama is easily promotable etc., you all know that. Some of the scenes may have been scripted as we have seen in the past. This is far more perilous on certain reality shows such as Discovery's "Man vs. Wild" et al where the (assumed) reality is more real. Project Runway is better in that we see more of the design process & learn more.
The character is revealed in the design. With food that's harder to translate. So ergo the subplots, drama etc.
Hey, In the end it's mildly entertaining reality tv.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 7:29 PM

Nan wrote:

The so called prank was planned Elia and Elan did not cut their hair till after the attack on Marcel to cover up. Look at the stills of the tape Elia is standing at door way black tank top and she has her hair. They all should be disqualified

posted on January 18, 2007 at 8:00 PM

Kat wrote:

As you are surely aware, the incident wherein Marcel assaulted occured berfore Ilan and Elia shaved their heads. If you watched the video, surely this was obvious to you. Your attempts at spin and damage control don't amount to much since we've all seen the video. In light of this fact and the ridiculous "Who hates Marcel the most?" poll, it's absurd for you to talk about the "integrity" of the show.

Fortunately for those of us who tuned in to Top Chef hoping to see a cooking competition, such programs are available on other channels.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 8:01 PM

dizz wrote:

this episode left me wondering what any of this has to do with cooking. this group of cowards and bullies spend all of their energies directing anger and spite towards each other, no wonder they have no time to come up with ideas for food. I for one am glad that Cliff was kicked off, he was a big bully from the start. Elan is creepy and an instigator of violence. Elia is a coward and a quitter. Sam may be a good cook but he always looks dirty and grimy and he too is a coward. Marcel is the only one who shows any kind of maturity in this group. Even when Cliff assaulted Marcel, the others did nothing but egg him on. Then afterward they were not even sorry or felt what they did was wrong. Cliff was taken aback when he was told he had to leave. What kind of leaders would these people be in a restaurant or in life? I'm sorry that TC did not step up the plate and punish these four people for assaulting and abetting the assault on Marcel. I would never eat at any establishment any of these four worked at. I would even be surprised if they could get a job after an employer saw this tape. The producers of TC should be extremely ashamed of themselves.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 8:52 PM

Karen wrote:

As a senior citizen, I find you allowing the tacky,
mean infighting throughout this season, and a group
of "professionals" to conduct themselves with absolutely
no sense of decorum, therefore displaying your own
lack of taste. This is supposed to be a cooking show.
You obviously go for sensationalism which undermines
the profession of "chef" so badly that I can't imagine
other candidates wanting to place themselves in your
hands.
Grow up!

posted on January 18, 2007 at 8:56 PM

cb wrote:

You know what Shauna? As shameful and embarrassing as this once respectable show has become. I wonder if any of you TC exec`s have considered the consequences of what this shows season is doing to the reputation of Tom C. He clearly has a lot of fans, and his opinions are valued. How much longer will he tolerate and allow his good name to be associated with the fiasco that TC has become. I`m surprised that he was chosen to confront Cliff. If I were Tom I would have told you NO! Go in and clean up your own mess. That`s exactly what the once great TC has become one big mess.... I can only surmise that he`s making big bucks to put up with the hugh joke and drama queen that your show has become. I cant wait for this season to be over, and I don`t give a care who wins. Of course, SAM is the winner, there is no mystery in that, and I also know that the viewers will be subjected to more of the garbage till the winner is announced. Whatever you were going for this season, you have failed miserably, you chose candidates for the drama that they would bring and the ratings that would go along with that.... Instead of top of the line A-One contenders... Not only have you failed the fans who believed that this show was really giving us the best of the best of up and coming chef`s, you`ve also failed the sponsors, the judges, and any future serious contenders. Top Chef`s credibility is now down the drain.... Your not looking for accountable, real life, top of the line chef`s... Your looking for ratings... It`s like Tiffani said in a candid moment last season on the reunion show... “ I don`t want to be someone`s performing monkey any longer” we should have all stood up and taken notice of that comment... Hey Scott, when you say that it made you laugh to read “Undermined the dignity of the show, lol PLEASE get over your self.... You were right on the mark... This show lost it`s dignity when TC1 ended... I wanted to believe in this show, I wanted to learn some of the better ways to cook food, I wanted to root for a chef that I would be happy to visit and eat at their establishments in the future... Instead I got A bunch of made for TV drama wanna b`s. who, I never care to see again, and I don`t care if they open restaurants 5 feet in walking distant from my home.. Well, Jerry Springer fans unite!!! You now have a somewhat cooking show to watch and you have the brilliance of Bravo for failing to maintain an honest, faithful to its fans, dignified, respectable, and merited for respect to thank for that... Cancelled but brilliant, no wonder you have so many....

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:27 PM

Jim V wrote:

Perhaps the reason that Marcel didn't immediately complain is because it is not always easy to step forward and announce that you have been the victim of an assault. Juvenile and undignified behavior is one thing, but being wrenched from bed and manhandled by someone twice your size is quite another!

As a dedicated viewer of Top Chef and Project Runway, I have never been as discomforted as I was watching Marcel be victimized. I understand the motivations that may have come into play, but this was human behavior at its worst, and NOT good television.

Having watched my share of "Real World", "The Apprentice" and the above mentioned Bravo shows, I cannot understand how producers can expect perfect strangers to compete for a valuable prize/position/job and then behave safely and sanely towards one another when forced into tight living quarters. There have to be other ways to show the personalities and interchanges between contestants without forcing them into the same bedroom.

Please give Marcel my sympathies - no matter what the others may have thought of him, he didn't deserve to be assaulted.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:31 PM

WJG wrote:

I'm really disgusted at what TC has become and am thinking about not watching the finale - and definitely not S3. I thought Bravo's "reality" shows were a cut above those on regular network...silly me. I don't get the sense that anyone really cared about Marcel (Frank's threat didn't get him in hot water?) and production has added fuel to the fire with its Marcel polls! "Who hates Marcel the most?" C'mon...as "horrified" as you all allegedly were, I bet you were high-fiving yourselves over the drama motherlode that fell into your laps...ratings! Andy having a live chat with Cliff after the show! So, now the consistently best chef - Sam - will probably walk away with the prize...Mr. Passive-Aggressive "I'm not that guy." Sam? You ARE that guy, don't kid yourself.

So Bravo, the fact that you're doing a series on Paula Abdul tells me you're less concerned with substance than something else. Will someone wake me up when the show becomes about FOOD (and people who are serious contestants; no stunt casting like Mikey?)?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:46 PM

Mike B wrote:

The show took away dignity from your show. I agree with everyone here,GET OVER YOURSELF. Whats wrong with shaven heads. You look in disgust at cancer patients? Did'nt you have a rude chef judge who had a mohawk? You and this show are out of control and ridiculous. Every reality show lets the people drink and encourage it because drama arises for your now stupid show. You and the show should be sued. Again lay off the, "shaven heads was bad for your show" . You and the show are now a joke.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 9:58 PM

Sydney wrote:

I readily acknowledge that you guys played no part in what happened between Cliff and Marcel. However, I'm appalled that you not only chose to air the footage, which was completely unnecessary and humiliating, but also capped it off with a snide little "who hates Marcel the most" poll. That was a nice touch. Marcel has been consistently berated and embarrassed by the other chefs throughout the season, and while it is easy to accept the fact that he does rub people the wrong way, the extent to which it has been taken is disgusting. This show is supposed to be about food, not the playground bullying and the subsequent reveling you people are egging on. You and the rest of your production team are as guilty as any of the chefs involved in this incident, because in broadcasting the footage and instigating that poll, you are only exacerbating the issue and causing further embarrassment to Marcel.

So get off your high horse and get over yourself, lady. Stop pretending like it's OK for you and your colleagues to exploit people like this and compromise the integrity of a good show so that you can shamelessly glean some more advertising dollars out of Gladware, Kenmore, and RAV4. "It makes for good reality TV" is not an excuse that flies in this situation, and you know it. Not that it will make much of a difference, but I am done watching Top Chef and I will no longer be purchasing any products from your advertisers.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:16 PM

Landon Bryce wrote:

Please explain why the sequence of events was reversed: stills do seem to show that Elia had her hair during the attack on Marcel. Your "Who Hates Marcel Most" poll was shameful and made it look like the producers were, at best, wildly out-of-synch- with how viewers would react to the show they created. Top Chef looks like "Lord of the Flies," and the producers look as bad as Sam, Elia, and Ilan- encouraging assault and humliation, sitting by giggling while it happens, and failing to take any real responsibility. Do any of you understand that you have made yourselves look completely despicable?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:23 PM

Andrea wrote:

If anything, why not let Elia, Sam, and Ilan go too? You could have let three of the contestants who were voted off on-like what happened on project runway. I don't like your production team.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:34 PM

jem wrote:

It's all been said but I am sending this so that your network recieves yet another vote against your handling of the Marcel episode. Like the majority of posters I was revolted by the assault on Marcel by Cliff and the tacit support he recieved from Sam. As to Ilan's egging Cliff on- I don't see why you didn't send that mean spirited, creep Ilan home too.

The build up of verbal agression if unchecked can lead to physical abuse. Last night's episode case in point. After umpteen episodes of gratuitous Marcel baiting the groups assault of Marcel isnt so surprising.

You, Madame Producer, most definitely deserve a portion of the blame for one of the worst cases of group agression I've had the misfortune to witness on tv. Hey aren;t you British? Does that explain your high tolerance for the shaming of others? Isn't your reality tv very meanspirited?
Do everyone a favor. Find another venue, preferably across the "pond" to dirty
over. Try to spare Bravo and next Season's Top Chef from more low life content. Most of your viewers are cable subscribers and foodies who are not watching MTV or Jerry Springer for a reason. Your market of viewers is a cut above. A cut above the content you are offering and a cut above the taste of Bravo's scuzzy producers. Oh, that's you dear.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:51 PM

Nancy C wrote:

This episode was not compelling TV. This was a bad episode of Survivior, which I do not watch. There is enough drama in the kitchen to satisfy everyone. More about the food - the prep, ingredients, wine pairings - and less about the after hours escapades of the chefs would be compelling. This has been a very disappointing season.

posted on January 18, 2007 at 10:58 PM

Larry wrote:

Season 1: Talented chefs acting in a predominately professional manner produce wonderful and imaginative foods, which are the main focus of the show.

Season 2: Mediocre talents act outrageously, while the show's main focus seems to be commercial product placement and "who hates Marcel the most."

Is it any wonder that your fans are upset?

posted on January 18, 2007 at 11:03 PM

elsa wrote:

I've watched the episode twice and thanks to Mia's post, looks like I'll have to watch it again. Thanks for posting that you saw Elia during the "Marcel Fiasco".

But now from what I saw. I saw Sam sleeping (?) on a couch and heard Elia say from a distance,
"I can't"
when the "wrestling match" was going on (thought she was in the bathroom??).

Again, I've only seen the show twice, but from what I saw, yes, Ilan and possibly Sam should have also been sent home. They could have stopped the scuffle. (missing Mikey's "chill, Dude!")

Seems Marcel and Elia had nothing to do with the "attack" from what I saw, but again, looks like I'll have to see it again!

Shauna, perhaps maybe you can send this on?
From the "stoveside manners" I've seen in the kitchen, I do NOT think judging should be "only about the food". A great Chef needs to work well with people in order to keep line cooks in his/her employ. If "stoveside manner" was judged along with the food, the final lineup would be very different! (for instance, Cliff would have been sent packing long ago! In fact, I think Elia might be the only one left! She's been the only one I've seen that has been polite to her co-contestants in the kitchen)

Would be as easy as letting the judges watch what goes on in the kitchen instead of just focusing on the final product.

And agreed, with the shaved heads--who cares! To quote a common quote on TC,
"It's all about the food"

posted on January 19, 2007 at 12:16 AM

Matt C wrote:

I agree that the show has tried to rile US up about Marcel, but that has no effect on the people in the show; their behavior has all happened months ago. And I agree that the chefs shouldn't have done what they did, and that they all have a sense of culpability...but some of you are so prudish and freaky about this! What were they supposed to do, just shut down the show? Not refer to it at all? Cover it up?

Next season, definitely only hire fine upstanding people who have no character issues! People who will never surprise us with anything they say or do! That will be SO MUCH BETTER -- right, people?

posted on January 19, 2007 at 12:18 AM

Roddy wrote:

Marcel is