A thrilling new chapter emerges for television chef Sandra Lee as she reenters the spotlight with her latest show, Blue Ribbon Baking Championship, streaming on Netflix. After surviving significant personal hurdles, including battling cancer and ending her long-term relationship with former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, Lee is ready to showcase her culinary skills once again.
This fresh endeavor joins her impressive list of previous works, most famously her shows Semi-Homemade Cooking and Sandra’s Money Saving Meals, both of which were staples on the Food Network. Now, she dives deep with Blue Ribbon Baking Championship, where she co-hosts with actor Jason Biggs. Lee describes Biggs as not only entertaining but also as having impressive baking skills. She fondly recalls his “unbelievable” banana bread recipe, which speaks to their culinary chemistry on the show.
On Blue Ribbon Baking Championship, ten skilled pastry chefs compete for the coveted blue ribbon as well as the chance to win $100,000. The competition isn’t just about baking; it emphasizes community and creativity, values Lee holds dear. “They lifted each other up,” she explains, noting how contestants often helped each other rather than vying solely for personal gain. This camaraderie, she believes, might resonate with viewers, especially as they witness the genuine support among the bakers.
Reflecting on her past, Lee has had quite the emotional and professional rollercoaster ride. “I really cleaned house of my life over the last decade,” she reveals during our Zoom conversation from her home in Malibu. The aftermath of her breast cancer diagnosis in 2015 and the subsequent breakup with Cuomo saw her transition from New York to California, where she took care of her uncle Bill during his own cancer battle. All these experiences have deeply influenced her outlook on life and work. “I’m finding peace now with my decisions and with my new life,” she adds, demonstrating resilience and growth.
While speaking about her new show, Lee is quick to highlight what makes Blue Ribbon Baking Championship stand out from other cooking competitions. Unlike many cooking shows, this one captures the energy of real-time cooking, with 18-hour shooting days devoid of any cool-off periods or edits to bridge over any mishaps. Lee credits this format with bringing forth the authentic essence of both American culture and the fair experience, offering audiences not just recipes but insight to the kindness of the baking community.
But Blue Ribbon Baking Championship is only one of many projects Lee has on her list. She dreams of creating another show but with the twist of combining real estate and family dynamics. Her sister, who runs a successful real estate and staging business, is the perfect collaborator for this venture. Lee jokingly mentions her alternate identity, Aunt Sandy Clause, which she developed during the pandemic, as yet another fun idea brewing for the future.
Growing up, baking has always been close to Lee’s heart. “My first love is cake decorating,” she reflects. While other kids played with dolls, she was busy with icing tips and powdered sugar. This passion for baking connects seamlessly to her professional life, brushing aside the notion of elitism often found among chefs. Lee firmly believes chefs should be approachable and relatable, something she aims to embody through her shows.
Switching gears to the holiday season, Lee enthusiastically discusses her obsession with Christmas trees. Depending on her home’s layout, she puts up trees in multiple rooms. She views decorating each tree as part of expressing the spirit of each space, jokingly commenting on her playful use of toilet paper patterned with festive Santas. It’s this lighthearted approach to life and cooking, she hopes, will shine through to viewers.
Years have passed since she graced television screens, but Lee’s return is packed with promise and renewed energy. With Blue Ribbon Baking Championship, she hopes to capture hearts by sharing not just competitive baking but also stories of triumph, community spirit, and the joy of creating something beautiful together.
This show is more than just baking; it's Lee's reintroduction to audiences eager for heartwarming content and culinary adventures. "The world needs to see our fairs and the kindness of people," she states confidently, eager to share her love for baking and community. With the anticipation surrounding Blue Ribbon Baking Championship, there’s no doubt Sandra Lee is back and better than ever.