Renowned celebrity chef Rachael Ray bid adieu to her syndicated daytime talk show, The Rachael Ray Show, after a triumphant 17 seasons, on May 24.
The concluding episode was marked with emotional messages from Ray’s celebrity friends, including Oprah Winfrey, Donnie Wahlberg, and Jenny McCarthy.
Kicking off the last episode, Ray prepared her husband John Cusimano’s favorite dish, pasta carbonara or “crabonara,” in her home kitchen as a tribute to the show’s finale. The episode also featured Wahlberg’s thirteenth appearance, where he expressed his gratitude towards Ray, acknowledging her role in his relationship with McCarthy.
McCarthy joined in, conveying a warm message, appreciating Ray as a friend, sister, and mentor. Ray reciprocated the sentiments, assuring viewers of her continued presence in the industry, hinting at more “hat tricks” to come.
As the final episode progressed, chef Richard Blais paid tribute to Ray’s signature Italian-American cuisine by preparing a chicken lobster piccata. Oprah Winfrey, who helped launch the show, concluded the celebrity messages with a heartfelt tribute, praising Ray for her authenticity.
After Winfrey’s message, Ray expressed deep gratitude, acknowledging the integral role Winfrey played in her show and personal life. As the show concluded, a montage of the show’s memorable moments and guests was showcased.
Finally, Ray, with her husband by her side, reminisced about the show’s journey, her magazine, and paid tribute to their late dog, Isaboo. She acknowledged the dedication of her co-workers, and with her iconic phrase, “We’ll see ya when we see ya, everybody,” signed off for the last time.
