Kids Baking Championship is set to embark on an exciting new journey as it enters season 13 with fresh faces at the helm. In a significant shift, Kardea Brown steps in as the host and judge, taking over from the beloved Valerie Bertinelli, who has been a staple of the series for twelve seasons. The announcement came after Valerie revealed in January 2024 that budget cuts led to her departure from the culinary competition, leaving fans heartbroken. However, many agree that Kardea is an outstanding choice for her new role.
In October 2024, Kardea expressed her enthusiasm for joining Duff Goldman in hosting the show. Best known for her own cooking series, Delicious Miss Brown, and her roles as a judge on Spring Baking Championship and Holiday Wars, Kardea brings a wealth of experience to the table. Although Valerie has garnered immense love from the audience and contestants alike, Kardea’s qualifications position her as an ideal successor. Below, we explore the reasons why Kardea will shine as the host and judge of Kids Baking Championship.
1 Real-World Experience with Children
Kardea’s Path from Social Services to the Kitchen
Kardea’s journey to becoming a host and judge on Kids Baking Championship is particularly meaningful to her, as she began her career in children’s social services nearly 16 years ago. Sharing this experience on Instagram, she highlighted her roles as a social worker, teacher, and counselor, emphasizing her deep love for working with children. This genuine passion and relevant experience uniquely equip Kardea to support young contestants as they navigate the pressures of the competition.
2 Experience Hosting Holiday Reunion Specials
Kardea Has Previously Engaged with Young Bakers
Before stepping into her new role, Kardea has hosted holiday reunion specials for the show, including episodes like “Sweets-Giving”and “Reindeer Games.”These experiences served as valuable auditions, allowing her to interact with the kid bakers and showcase her ability to connect with them in a fun, engaging manner.
3 Kardea’s Affinity with Children
A Natural Bond with Young Contestants
Kardea’s relationship with the young bakers is evident from her previous appearances on the show. Despite the initial apprehension from the contestants, Kardea quickly won them over with her warmth and approachability. Her ability to connect will only grow as she engages with a new group of bakers throughout the season, nurturing both their skill sets and self-confidence in the kitchen.
4 Exceptional Baking Skills
Kardea’s Culinary Mastery
As a skilled baker, Kardea brings a wealth of knowledge that is crucial for judging desserts in Kids Baking Championship. Her innovative recipes, from Limoncello trifle to strawberry snowball cookies, showcase her expertise. Kardea’s ability to create unforgettable desserts positions her as a credible judge who understands the intricacies of baking.
5 Strong Chemistry with Duff Goldman
A Dynamic Duo
Kardea’s camaraderie with Duff Goldman is apparent. She expressed her admiration for him in her announcement, alluding to their fun interactions during past holiday specials. Their collaborative spirit promises to enhance the viewing experience, bringing an engaging dynamic to the show that will resonate with fans.
6 Honest but Gentle Judging
Empathetic Guidance for Young Bakers
In honoring Valerie Bertinelli’s legacy, Kardea has the ability to provide honest yet kind critiques, ensuring that the kids feel valued and supported. While identifying areas for improvement, she maintains a nurturing approach that encourages growth, essential for fostering young talents in a high-pressure competition.
7 Kardea’s Sparkling Personality
A Fun and Relatable Host
Fans of Kardea know that her engaging personality captivates audiences. With her charm and humor, she creates an inclusive atmosphere that invites everyone in. Her down-to-earth nature and ability to relate to children make her an ideal fit for connecting with contestants and viewers alike.
8 Bringing Representation to the Show
A Role Model for Young viewers
Kardea’s presence on Kids Baking Championship is especially significant as she embodies diversity. As a Black woman of Gullah descent, she serves as an important role model, particularly for young Black girls aspiring to enter the culinary world. Her representation will inspire the younger generations to see their potential reflected in the media.
9 Looking Ahead to Season 13
While Valerie will be greatly missed in the kitchen, Kardea is a perfect fit for this new chapter of Kids Baking Championship. With the season 13 theme, “Amazing Animals,”set to premiere on January 6, 2025, viewers can look forward to a fresh perspective and Kardea’s unique blend of warmth, expertise, and passion.
Kids Baking Championship season 13 premieres on Monday, January 6, 2025, at 8 p.m. EST on Food Network.
Source: Kardea Brown/Instagram, Food Network
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