I admit it. There was a time when I used to watch Rachael Ray with fondness and enthusiasm. Granted, it was before she became such a huge deal. There was a certain charm in her down-home dorkiness. At one point in time, believe it or not, it was clever and amusing to listen to her make up words like “spoonula” and “EVOO” and “Stoup.” Heck, even her goofy laugh had some charm in it back in the day.
Today? I’m not the biggest fan of Rachael anymore. In fact, it’s gotten to the point that when I see 30 Minute Meals coming on, I quickly change the channel.
I don’t think Rachael has changed. I think she’s always been herself, along with the huge personality and enduring goofiness. I think it’s really just a case of overexposure. Even before she had her morning talk show, the Food Network fell in love with her and she had as many as three of four shows going at the same time. it became a treat to turn on the Food Network and not see Rachael Ray.
I think Rachael also issued in a new regime at the Food Network, bringing more casual cooking to the channel. Shows began to focus on simple recipes and hosts with a lot of personality. I don’t mind it so much, but there are times I long for the classic cooking shows of old with real professional chefs (not cooks) like Julia Child, Todd English, Jacques Peppin, and Jeff Smith. Perhaps it’s just nostalgia clouding my vision. Besides, I have to admit that Ray’s recipes, while not complex or very sophisticated, are usually quick, easy, and tasty.
What are your thoughts on Rachael? Are you still on board her bandwagon? Did you ever get on it at all?
Clacked by Bob Degon
on Feb 21, 2009 @ 15:00 EST5EDT
Don’t much care for Rachael Ray anymore. You are right, I think, too much exposure. I also find her voice grating.
Oy, the “EVOO” grated on me from the start, but, I have to say, that bowl where she keeps her food scraps on the counter is genius. I can’t say I’ve ever been tempted to tray a RR recipe, but I haven’t heard good reviews….
I too have become a fan of the “garbage bowl,” but aside from that there’s few things I’ve ever seen her make that I’ve wanted to eat.
Personally I can’t stand the hand gestures at the beginning of the show, or the way she laughs at her own dumb jokes.