In defense of Rachael Ray

Shaunda Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:47 PM EST

Why do Americans waste so much time and energy on these trivial things. Come on - she is doing her job - let her be.

And no matter what RR does - someone is not going to like her. She is too this or too that. Everybody has an opinion. Aren't there better things to do with your time than to condemn her- or gossip. If you don't like her - try turning it off. It is this new thing - a remote control and you can change the channels ... WHO KNEW ?? !!!

And no boys RR is not for your perverted interest. All you are doing is funding her pay check ... GO RR !!

JAGx Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:34 PM EST

Grow up America and live a little!
Gotta love a person who has a real persona.

Enjoy life!

Jen Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:30 PM EST

Regarding the comment about Giada pronouncing things exotically: she was born in ITALY and she pronounces things correctly. I'm Italian-American and it makes me crazy when people say things mahtz-a-rella instead of moots-a-rella. She brings a lot of culture to the Food Network without being pretenious like Mario Batali.

SONJA Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:30 PM EST

JEALOUS!!!!JEALOUS!!!!JEALOUS!!!! RACHAEL RAY IS A HAPPY PERSON AND YOU NEGATIVE PEOPLE NEED TO GET A LIFE AND LEARN WHAT HAPPY IS.

Grace Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:13 PM EST

I thought I was the only person that she bugged. She seems like a nice person just too loud and animated for me to deal with. EVOO and YUMM-O drive me up the wall so I can't watch 30 Minute Meals, but I have to admit that I SOMETIMES sit through an episode of $40 a day. Oh well, as long as she's getting paid she should keep doing what she's doing...I just won't watch.

Tom Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:12 PM EST

yeah, she's a dork. Total goofball. But I like her.

Y'all really ought to monitor this board....

Keith Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:10 PM EST

I find her to be a sell-out. She said that buying a "set" of pots-n-pans is a waste of money because you only need a couple of items. Have you seen her set of pots-n-pans on sale at Kohls? Also, most of her recipes contain expensive ingredients that most people don't usually have. With the extra time spent shopping for her ingredients, they're hardly 30 minute meals.

Meiriongwril Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:04 PM EST

Rachel Ray is the MOST annoying person on TV (bar Bush and his cronies)
For Gawd's sake send her back to the obscurity she so richly deserves....

Catwomyn Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 05:03 PM EST

RR is justa regular person making ordinary everyday food for ordinary people. I may enjoy watching Jacques Pepin or more classically trained chefs produce their oh-so-special meals but I've actually used some of Rays's recipes.

Mark Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:57 PM EST

I never cook and never watch TV cooking shows, but I do watch Rachel Ray's shows.

I don't like her morning entertainment show, that's too annoying.

She's good looking, down to earth and makes meals I will eat, not the kind of meal that you get for $100 a portion in Manhattan.

malik Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:46 PM EST

My oh my...is this discussion being moderated! Some of the comments are very disrespectful and plain rude. Nevertheless, I enjoy watching Rachel's shows. She has tremendous energy and just brings a very good feeling to your living room through the TV set. Good work Rachel!

Shawna Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:41 PM EST

Don't like her! She has no appeal! If she can be on TV any can.

Sharon Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:40 PM EST

OK--I do like Rachel in 30 Minute Meals and even have one of her cookbooks. I generally think she has some good ideas/recipes. But, I do agree-she has become waaay overexposed with TV shows, cookbooks, magazines, cookware, etc., etc. She is very average looking-that is probably why she is so relatable, but I agree there is overkill on the Rachel-isms-yummo and EVOO. This, too, shall pass! (the obsession with Rachel Ray)
Also, are the obscene comments necessary?????!!!!!

Gail Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:32 PM EST

I guess in this day and age I should expect those vulgar and rude comments, however, I am sorry some people can't keep their mouths shut if they have nothing useful to say. I think Rachel has come a long way and does her show with a certain amount of style and flair that is refreshing. She is a bright and inventive young lady and should be appreciated for just that. Good luck Rachel!!

Glenn George Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:13 PM EST

She's so cute! I always wondered how she could eat like that and still keep that cute little body she's got.

Hey Rachael, if you ever leave your husband.... ;)

mary Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:10 PM EST

Rachel Ray reminds me of what a truck stop waitress would be like...completely classless.
She needs to go back to burger flipping, that seems to be more of her style.

Roger Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 04:01 PM EST

I think Rachel Ray is hot. Who cares if she can cook, or if she is loud. Guys watch her show just to see her ass, or maybe grab a quick glipmse down her blouse or sweater.

Quinn Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:56 PM EST

I was a big fan of the food network for the past few years, but lately it's gotten so pretentious that it's unwatchable. Giada has to pronounce things in a way to make them sound exotic (spa-GIT-ty, pro-CHUTE-to). Michael Chiarello constantly has his vineyard and indentured servants walking around. Ina Garten busts out the rich person laugh as her gardener fixes up the sets. Give me a break. At least Rachael isn't constantly reminding us that we're too lowly to rub elbows with people in Beverly Hills, Napa, or the Hamptons.

emigre Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:51 PM EST

She makes dining alone look easy and even fun. The waiters usually give her great seats, even though she sometimes undertips.

Kristie Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:35 PM EST

Rachael Ray is funny, quirky and entertaining. Of course I only know her via her tv shows and her magazine. She seems to me like a normal person. She likes to talk, she likes to eat and be creative. I think she just likes to help all of us eat better. Who doesn't need that help. Sometimes she is a little too quirky, but that just shows how much a "real" person she is. Just like Paula Deen. I will keep watching Rachael as long as her shows are on. I think she may be getting overexposed, with 30 Minute Meals, $40 Dollars a Day, Inside Dish and her daytime talk show, so I hope she is careful. Sometimes too much of a good thing is just too much.

Keep up the good work Rachael!!

Kelly Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:33 PM EST

Those oval pots she hawks on her show are utter garbage.

Ewan Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:32 PM EST

Say what you will about Rachel Ray, her shows are infinitely more entertaining than the ones of her peers. And by the way, she has never said she was a chef, she calls herself a cook. Did anyone see Iron Chef America with her and Mario Batali vs. Giada and Bobby Flay? Ray was focused and knew exactly what she was doing and in the end, her team won...that Giada chick undercooked one dish at first, then she burnt another one, and finally, she forgot to garnish one dish with cranberries (the secret ingredient) until Flay reminded her. Rachel Ray all the way.

Buck Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:31 PM EST

I love when people say "I went to the places she had on $40 a Day and the food sucked. I do better exploring on my own."

Duh! That's the whole point of the show. Not to agree with her selections but that you can find great food at a good price by exploring yourself.

Talk about not seeing the forest for the trees....

ange larsen Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:22 PM EST

I love watching Rachael's shows. To all of you who made the comments on her body....What the hell is wrong with you? I hope your really proud of the person you are and personally I think you are a waste of air.

Joey Lee Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:14 PM EST

Hosts on the Food Network are very enthusiastic about what they do and obviously enjoy sharing it. I think Rachael's great and I would be grateful to have just one-third of her energy. I know she gets a lot of flack about the tipping issue, but it's not a show about tipping and you can bet being on the Food Network is of some benefit to the restaurants. Personally I think $40 is a fortune and I could eat for a lot less, but that's me. She's very down to earth and a very appealing TV personality (in my humble opinion).

Kim Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:11 PM EST

I love Rachael! She is a total sweetheart, and you know what? Her meals are not only possible, they're customizable. I much prefer to make Rachael's dishes than some of the other Food Network chefs. I can easily tinker with them and temper them to my own tastes. Think you can make one of Mario Batal's or Emeril's dishes for under $10 and have it taste right? Absolutely not. Rachael is realistic. And she drinks beer. I love her.

matt Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:09 PM EST

Emeril says "BAAAM"...Rachel says "EVOO". Its a show, they do stuff to get noticed. It may get old for regular watchers, just ignore it.
I personally love the Rachel's 30 Minute Meal show. Got some practical ideas for things to make at home. I will take the EVOO with it.

kevin Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 03:04 PM EST

I like her but I do find her annoying at times...However, at those times I, like all her detractors, don't have to watch her...I, and they, can turn off the tv.

sa Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:54 PM EST

$40 A Day is a joke! Does this girl believe in tips or what! Most of the time, she's drinking water with her meals too! One other thing, this girl IS a pain in the neck to watch. She's loud, silly and goofy. I hope she continues to get OVER EXPOSED and ultimately, rejected by the public. Thumbs down on this chick!

Triple E Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:48 PM EST

Man, what is with all of this Rachel (as well as a few of the other chefs) bashing? Yes, Rachel can tend to get on your nerves, but I never get tired of watching her, or any of the others, cook. I thoroughly enjoy the Food Network. I've gotten plenty of insight and ideas on things that I would possibly like to cook at times, so I never grow tired of watching them. Granted, there are times I think that Giada and Sandra are too "pretty" to be in the kitchen at times, but I still enjoy watching and Sandra has come up rather tasty cocktails. Oh and she's not the only one that likes to take a sip, if you've noticed. Bobby Flay has his favorites as well. As for those that don't like Rachel, there's this fantastic invention. It's called the remote control, if you don't want to watch her, simply change the channel. Cheers!

Katson Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:38 PM EST

I think Rachel Ray is kinda dorkey, but I love watching her! I have watched her cooking show for a couple years now, only wish I could catch her daytime show more! Only see it when I'm off work. Keep on talking and cooking, Rachel, your 30 minute recipes really rock!

lori Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:37 PM EST

What's funny is Rachael doesn't read crap such as this and couldn't give a crap what any of you think. I am sure she is smiling all the way to the bank. So, obviously what she does is puttin' the bread on her table and not your nasty, bitter little opionions! Peace.

Victor Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:30 PM EST

The people who are acting like children are the people whining about what other people think. Everybody has their own opinion, get over it...when someone becomes a star they give up some of their privacy and it's perfectly okay to criticize them or praise them. It's not "mean" its reality, its life. Just because someone doesn't agree with you or doesn't like a particular public persona, actor, etc... doesn't mean they are being cruel....jeez....

Rod Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:25 PM EST

Don't people have anything better to do than bash some nice person who likes to cook and assist others with her talents! Get a Life!

phantom Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:21 PM EST

Part of me gets annoyed with Rachael, but most of me loves her because I feel that she is an ordinary person. I also like that she creates food with everyday ingredients that I can find in the supermarket. I am definitely a fan. Her food is YUM-O!

Bill H Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:18 PM EST

hatahs got no skillet game!

She beats the crap out of the other credentialed Food Networks stiffs that the WASPs and the over-achievers drool over.

Any woman that *recommends* using oven-fries in a meal has my heart forever.

Pat Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:17 PM EST

I have to say that, while Rachael Ray's tips on $40/day and 30 Min Meals are great, I can't listen to her for the same reason I can't watch a lot of hosts on the Food Channel, HGTV, TLC, and other stations...that the major job requirement seems to be that you have the most annoying personality possible. There are a lot of shows that I watch on mute so I don't have to listen to gratingly perky, bouncy voices...and that's men AND women.

dave Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:17 PM EST

I LOVE HER, she is the best AT EVERYTHING@!!

anno Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:09 PM EST

okay, the people that are saying those of us that don't like her are jealous, you can stop. I just don't like her. If I was jealous, then I also wouldn't like other food network hosts, but I like Paula, Ina, Giada, and Sara. This is also the US of A and we are entitled to our opinions. I don't criticize you for liking her.

SANDY Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:08 PM EST

I THINK SHE IS A VERY NICE YOUNG WOMAN...WHO IS A GREAT COOK

Celina De La Fuente Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:57 PM EST

Had no idea who she was when I channel surfed onto her shows. I personally think she is wonderful with creative ideas;in the kitchen or while traveling.

Single Dad Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:54 PM EST

What harm has this woman done to anyone? If you don't like her, don't watch her. As for me, I think I speak for a lot of newly single dads when I say "Thanks for making cooking easy!" I owe Rachel a lot.

Melissa Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:48 PM EST

I absolutely love Rachel Ray. I think she's smart, witty, adorable, and friendly. What more could you want? Plus, her meals always look delicious!!! Her talk show is fun, and $40 a Day is a great show, too. Keep up the good work, girl!

Cher Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:46 PM EST

It is amazing how people can be so rude and cruel and pick people apart. She has made it and she is interesting. She has good ideas for those of us who find 24 hours in a day is not enough and have a family too. If you don't like her, don't watch her. It is a free country. There is no need for the ridicule. You people need to get a life. You sound like a bunch of children. Get over it.

Diddy Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:45 PM EST

Get a life people! there must be a load of teens in this forum--how can an adult be so offensive against another person just because how they sound or look? there's a better and simpler way to address someone you cannot "click": don't watch them, don't talk to them.
I'm sure there's people out there who for whatever reason don't like some of you. so what? live and let live.

Jennifer Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:45 PM EST

She is way too annoying to me! And, no, I'm not jealous; it's so childish to say someone is jealous because they say they can't stand someone. Grow up - there are a host of reasons why we don't like people! RR is so full of herself, and very unattractive to booth. She is sooooo over rated! She got on my nerves the first time I saw her way back when she started. Everyone in my family thinks she's annoying and none of us watch her shows.

jeff Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:44 PM EST

Love her or hate her, she is what she is...a money-making-machine for the food network and CBS. Some of the comments here childish and unfair...if you want to point out a body part (Flintstone feet or Man Hands) post a picture of yourself first and let us see what perfection is. EVOO...hmmm imagine if someone is tuning in for the first time and hears EVOO without the explaination, perhaps everyone watching does not follow her shows with the same vigor you do.
Not tipping enough, please, the restaurant and server just got National exposure...they should be tipping her.

Milly Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:41 PM EST

Rachael Ray is great!!!!...I love her shows & watch them whenever i get a chance..If you don't like her, Turn it off or change the channel, It's simple as that. If you want to critize her work then fine..everyone has a right to their opinion but why critize her on her looks when her shows have nothing to do about that.
Come on people!!!

Michael Anderson Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:34 PM EST

Rachael Ray lights the screen up. I don't even cook but when I'm channel surfing I stop to watch. She smiles from the soul and is real. As far as not being a model who cares. I'd take over one anyday.

Ed Johnson Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:29 PM EST

I love Racheal. I love her personality.
I heard her husband had an affair on her.

Nancy Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:21 PM EST

I love Rachael! Her recipes are terrific and she deserves every dime she's earning.

El Stone Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:16 PM EST

Don't know, don't care, don't worry.

beckaj Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:10 PM EST

Sure, she can be annoying at times (EVOOeww!), but I'm a fan. In the smorgasbord of TV cooks/chefs/whatever that we have available, I think there's plenty of room for someone of Rachael's style--some fun, a little brash, with a pinch of obnoxious. And the big smile is nice too. I would not be surprised to see her snort when she laughs. My seven-year-old adores her, has become quite interested in cooking, and just received Rachael's cookbook for kids for a birthday present. Kids' affinity for Rachael should earn our perky host some points. Her $40 a Day show does what it's intended to do--it encourages people in unfamiliar digs to try restaurants and joints they've never heard of instead of handwringing their way into the safety of an Applebee's or Outback. Yes, she should tip better, even if the budget gets blown.

As for her talk show, that was clearly not her idea. May she enjoy the ride, and may she grow into the show before the ride ends.

One more thing: Ms. Ray's use of "garbage bowl" as a verb totally works!

been there Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 01:02 PM EST

dc, you've never been a waiter. Not hard to figure that one out! If America is the only country that gives tips that count, it's because it's the only country where servers get paid less than minimum wage because the restaurant owner is ALLOWED to expect servers to make up the difference in tips. And the IRS actually TAXES waiters on an income that includes a calculation of 15% collection of tips, regardless of whether they actually collect that money or not!! So if you're a waiter serving broke college kids or cheapskates like you, you may actually get taxed on more than you earn. (Happened to my sister.) And if you have to go in early to set up or stay late to close the place (we're talking grunt work here...there are no janitors in restaurants), there's a good 2-3 hours when you're not collecting any tips, getting paid only the less-than-minimum-wage-rate, yet the IRS includes these hours when calculating your take-home pay to on which they tax you. As a former waitress (had to do something to eat while paying tuition...and didn't get enough to eat at that), I can tell you that WE NEED TO CHANGE THE AMERICAN SYSTEM OF PAYING AND TAXING WAITERS!!! I guarantee that those European waiters you refer to who find it perfectly acceptable to get the change from $40 on a $38+ tab DO NOT WORK UNDER SUCH A SCREWY SYSTEM!! So either tip correctly while in America or write your congressman to get this mess straightened up. Everybody has to start somewhere and some of us start off with much less in our pockets than others. Waiting tables is hard work and it's honest work and it shouldn't be penalized. I am now the author of six published books, but I won't forget my waitressing days. If the service is good, I tip well!! But if it's not, I don't. I was nice to rude people as a waitress and waiters can certainly be nice to me when I'm being nice, myself. And I do realize that waiters cannot control mistakes made in the kitchen, something I bet dc doesn't realize, either. If Rachel Ray is a lousy on-air tipper, then Melissa is right to point it out as a bad habit.

Dwayne Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:59 PM EST

Who is this Rachel Ray? Stumbled on this forum and have got to say, get a life people, there's more than TV in the world and as for me well hey, I'll take a bologna sandwich any day.

Laura Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:59 PM EST

Wow, there are some really bitter, jealous people out there. Rachael drives me crazy with the EVOO thing (Rach honey, it's not a timesaver if you have to say it and then explain it). But good for her that she's had the success that she has. Giada shows way too much cleavage for a cooking show. i love Alton Brown! Now there's a man who deserves his own talk show.

Lorraine Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:58 PM EST

Wear a HAIR NET, and stop playing with your hair when you are cooking. That is disgusting to put your hands through your hair when you are handling food. End of story. A true Italian would know that ?????

Kim Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:51 PM EST

Geez.....all of you that are bashing this girls physical appearance should be ashamed of yourselves. How darn beautiful and talented are you? I believe we have just a bit of jealousy running amuck here. Live and let live; good for her. What have any of you meanies done that is so great with your lives?

Mary Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:49 PM EST

Rachel Ray is a breath of fresh air. Know why? She's real. Unlike Sandra Lee, or, as I like to call her, "Kitchen Barbie". Rachel, Giada, Ina, Nigella....they are all real and have a great passion for what they do. Rachel and Giada show it more in their actions when they are cooking. Rachel Ray has worked very hard to acheive her status and I for one hopes she's around for a long time. Quirky and funny are alright by me!!!

JR Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:47 PM EST

Look, no one is perfect and compared to previous cooks and chefs she is not so bad.I admit my wife watches and her voice and personality can be be annoying to a certain point. If you are watching her type of show and you expect to see nice breasts and model looks then you should really get the spice channel because the show is about food not beauty. Of course men would prefer a beautiful cook but now we enter the fantasy zone. Rachel's core audience can not be a bunch of 20-35 year old men anyway. I can not say I am a fan,but she has achieved her american dream so either jump on her bandwagon or tune off. Personally,I am a 30-something male and I do hate man hands on women as well as flinstone feet,so I leave the room when the show is on unless ofcourse my wife is planning to prepare something off the show then I want to see if she will pull it off.Please,hating someone you do not know wastes too much energy.

chef sb Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:43 PM EST

Thank goodness Julia Child didn't have to put a food show on today - with viewers like some of you she'd have been cancelled in a week! Who cares about the size of Rachael Ray's hands, breasts, neck or any other body part??? If you like her recipes and style of cooking, watch the show. If you don't, change the channel. She's not a model, what gives all of you the right to dissect her as if she'd offered her body to you for money? Do people like you chose a restaurant for the food, or do you ask the chefs for head shots before you'll sample their cooking?

(btw - as a professional chef, I can tell you, Dora, that we all tie our hair back/cover it up when cooking for clients. We just don't do it that way for the TV cameras, especially when talking about home cooking - do YOU put your hair in a hair net when you cook for your family???)

dc Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:41 PM EST

Melissa - the US is the only place where we tip 18-20%. In other countries, it is perfectly acceptable to give $40 for a $38 meal. Get with it.

Rachel rocks.

Mark&Di in Salisbury Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:40 PM EST

My wife and I love her food and cookbooks (we have tested to many recipes to mention) and her 30 minute meals show, which is about all the time we have to watch with full time jobs and twins. I guess we are just "normal" folks. Way to go, Rachael!!

Liz Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:25 PM EST

You know you've made it big when there's an "anti-you" site on the web. Rachael Ray was just this woman from upstate NY who by luck, determination and a bit of talent made it big. Heck, I'm jealous of her! Seriously, Rachael is great, but I also think she is way too overexposed. I mean the woman has a CD out! She doesn't sing on it (THANK YOU) but it's a compilation of her favorite Christmas songs. She's a cook! Does she really need a CD? I wish her all the success in the world, but I also hope she knows when enough is enough. Slow down, smell the roses, enjoy your success Rachael. Don't lose sight of who you are!

Jerry Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:24 PM EST

I think Rachel is fine. She is having here 15 minutes of fame, let her enjoy it, I do. Her $40 A Day is a good show, I have visited some of the towns she has done her show in and it was great.

anno Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:18 PM EST

I saw her being interviewed once and she said that on $40 a day, if she spends a lot of time talking about the decor of the restaurant and not the food, the food was bad. Shouldn't she be saying the food is bad? I also find her annoying and do not understand how she got that talk show. Also agree with the people about Sandra Lee, she is more annoying than Rachel.

Albert Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:16 PM EST

Success breeds contempt. Rachel is refreshing and she can cook rings around my mother. You go, girl.

Sean Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:15 PM EST

Sammies? Stoup? Nuff said...

sarah Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:14 PM EST

i enjoyed rachel at first, but she has gotten so over
exposed that i now wince when i see her face and her her voice. she is loud and somewhat abrasive. but hey, she can now afford to be.

i prefer ina garten and giada delaurentis. they are classy ladies and their recipes are never fail.

Mary Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:14 PM EST

Maybe all the comments about Rachael is because you are jealous of who she is and what she does. If you were up there you probably would act the same way. At least she is funny. Barefoot Contessa is far from being funny or interesting.

Jason Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:13 PM EST

I can't stand her on-air personality. Her flailing limbs, too-husky voice, accent, and overall attitude on the show make her hard to watch. But I'll be damned if the woman can't cook things I'd rather eat than dishes prepared by some of the actual chefs on Food Network. Also, I find that I actually enjoy 30 Minute Meals if I have it on but am looking at something else.

Otherwise, I'm sick of her before she finishes introducing the show.

Dora Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:12 PM EST

It turns me off when I see Rachael, Ina or any of the
cooks with their hair flying around. I would not eat
anything they fixed. What happened to the days of the
hair nets, keeping the hair and all its danders away
from the food. Very un-sanitary. Let's clean up
the kitchens again.

Rochelle Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:07 PM EST

Rachel Ray may offend some people, however, she has worked hard and earned her own shows. No one is going to please everyone- we're human. She has acheived a lot more than a LOT of Americans. I agree with a few of the previous posts, if you don't like to watch her then don't. Those that don't like her make it seem as though they have been forced at gunpoint to watch the shows. Hats off to you Rachel- keep the dishes & $40/day meals coming!

Jimmy Gonzales Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 12:01 PM EST

Rachael... congrats on becoming a huge success. Take your good fortune and turn it into a piskillion more bucks!
Shame on you people who criticize any one's idiosyncrasies. What a bunch of whiners!! Change the channel to DIY!
Also Rachael, thanks for the tip on Point Loma Seafood here in San Diego... YUMMO!! Take THAT you whiners!!

Melissa Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:59 AM EST

She never tips correctly on her show! You can not spend $38.10 on lunch and tip the change on $40!!! She is teaching Americans to be cheap and to screw their servers!

Linda Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:59 AM EST

I had a negative reaction the first time I watched her show because it was MORE ABOUT HER PERSONALITY THAN THE FOOD. Just someone yacking away trying to be funny and not always succeeding. I was surprised that she became so popular in this last year. Frankly, I enjoy and learn more from other Food Network shows, where the personalities are interesting but don't overwhelm the food thing.

Ginny Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:58 AM EST

I love Rachel. As the working mother of four, I have finally found a way to feed my family a good home cooked meal on weeknights. She's my hero!

Al Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:57 AM EST

An attractive, original woman that can cook? No wonder people hate her. Jeez, who'd want THAT around?

If you hate Rachel Ray, you must be a really fantastic, ugly chef whose spouse makes him/her watch Rachel's show. Otherwise, YOU control the remote, or YOU'RE learning something. Go harass people who deserve to get canned, like Dr. Phil, The Real World's casts since 1999, Joe Buck and Bill O'Reilley. Since when is the Food Network so mainstream that you can't avoid it?

steve from vegas Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:55 AM EST

Rachel Ray is hot. How can you not find that down home girl next door cuteness adorable? She is my fantasy girl.

Gary Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:55 AM EST

Her face is decent, but her arms are way too beefy. Her voice and personality are like fingernails on a chalkboard. My girlfriend loves to watch her, but hearing her voice makes me want to slit my wrists.

Tina Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:54 AM EST

Did anyone see the cover of one of her magazines? I think it was the October issue where she is sitting on a truck and she's barefoot. She has Fred Flinstone feet!

Scott Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:54 AM EST

I love Rachael. I watch 30-minute Meals whenever I get a chance. Yes, she's a little grating at times, but has such an "up" personality that it's fun to watch her.

Lynette Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:49 AM EST

30-Minute Meals is OK. Her magazine is OK. The talk show? Painful.

I heart Nigella.

John Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:47 AM EST

Why all the bashing on Rachael. I like the idea that she can do all of the stuff she does without all the pmp and circamstance that most of the other people on Food Network want you to do. She is not a chef as she states she is a cook and I love the way she handles herself around the kitchen about the person who commented about her not being the first person to use a garbage bowl on the counter, you would be suprised on how many people cant even boil water. I am a fairly seasoned vet when it comes to cooking and Rachael gives me some good tips!! She rocks she's cute and who cares if she drinks too much!! You go Rachael I am behind you all the way!!

Merry Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 11:45 AM EST

Rachel rocks! Yes, she's loud and perky, but that's part of her charm! Don't like her? Then don't watch her! Keep on cooking Rachel!

Tim Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 10:09 AM EST

She can GO. Immediately.

jan feb Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 09:39 AM EST

Rachael is loud, obnoxious, childish and thinks a lot of herself. She is not the first person to use a bowl for her garbage. I use a plastic veggie bag from the grocery store in my bowl so I don't have to wash my bowl! And my name is not Rachael. She is so quick putting everything together, the other cooks on the Food network do things so fast. Makes you wonder what else she does that fast. She lies about having all her herbs and veggies washed before hand also. She wears a microphone so I don't see why she talks so loud. And the goofy childish sayings she has, like 'sami' 'delish' yummo. Grow up and act your age. Her voice is very irritating. I do not watch her shows anymore because she is SO irritating.

Kurt Wed, Nov 29, 2006 at 02:44 AM EST

She's too perky, she talks too loud, and uses her hands too much when she talks. But I do- and I'd only admit this in the anonimity (sp?) of the internet, but I love both her talk show and 30 Minute Meals.

Plus I'm a huge dork, so I can relate.

jenjen Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 10:01 PM EST

She does have manhands.

She drinks alot, too. She always has some kind of alcoholic beverages on her shows (yes, she's an adult, but DAMN!!)

I've made a couple of her recipes and they were not that special. Sorry, Rach. The only reason they are 30-minute meals is because everything is already washed, chopped, organized, ready...all she has to do is throw it in a skillet with some EVOO and walla. Only in perfect TV land.

Troubledmind Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 08:11 PM EST

You can have her. Give me Ina.

I.L.M.S.S.C !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(I Love Me Some Barefoot Contessa.)
Ya'll know she is like the aunt you wish you had. Rich and homely but so lovable. Adopt me, Ina.

kellye Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 06:07 PM EST

thank you! i HATE HATE HATE it when she explains what "EVOO" is after she uses the damn abbreviation.
other than that, yeah, i kinda like her too.

Mario Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 05:38 PM EST

Jennifer,

If I weren't gay.. she'd make me go gay.. that's how bad she looks to me. In fact, she looks like a female version of a male friend of mine.. (and I"m NOT attracted to him at all).

Oh well, people can continue to like her.. I've heard horror stories of people that have worked with her and around her and they all say she's awful, awful, awful... now that her husband supposedly got caught cheating, watch out all you guys out there.. she's going to be on rampage to castrate any male that crosses her.

Jennifer Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 05:31 PM EST

I cannot for the life of me figure out why so many guys seem to have a crush on Rachael Ray. I don't find her the least bit attractive. (And no, I'm not "hatin" or jealous.)

Cardsgal Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 05:26 PM EST

Allan -- You are right that she is a beyotch while taping $40ADay. The producers location scout and select the restaurants where RR dines; they are based on the suggestions of (often) biased insiders in each city.

D Rocks Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 05:21 PM EST

That perky ball of cuteness grows on you like a fungus. It started out as an occassional 30 minute meal here or there, but the more you watch her, the more you love her. I'm now a full fledged disciple.

Allan Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 05:09 PM EST

I don't exactly hate her, but I do hate how she's spread so thin these days. How is it that a moderately entertaining person suddenly becomes a phenomenon. Her talk show is completely unnecessary. I've also heard that she's a major beyotch when she's in cities filming her $40 show.

Sarah Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 04:53 PM EST

I also have a love/hate thing for Rachel Ray. She is annoying but sometimes has good ideas and recipes. And the $40 a day thing- I went on vacation with a friend and we tried to budget $40 a day for each of us, and it worked!! We totally planned out where we were going for almost every meal, but it is possible to eat well and stay in your budget! Of course, cocktails were separate...

dawn Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 04:37 PM EST

Have to admit, I'm not a fan of Rachael Ray's whatsoever!! I personally can't stand the sheer number of times in a show she says EVOO. She's annoying and grating for the most part. That said, I agree that Semi Homemade gal is worse. I really used to not like Giada either (the whole soft-core porn while cooking feel to her show), but she grew on me and Behind the Bash is just fantastic!! Alton Brown? Another annoying person. Give me Paula Dean's sons!!!

MK Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 04:29 PM EST

I'm with you, Mr. Slezak. She's a little too perky for my taste, but I still like her. The really important thing is her recipes are great. Easy to make and tasty. Practically no one else consistently offers both. I can't watch the talk show, though. I tried, but I feel sorry for her frantically trying to whip up enthusiasm for some of those topics. Too painful. The food shows are much better.

sdr Tue, Nov 28, 2006 at 04:14 PM EST

yumm-o!!