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Understanding Emeril Lagasse
- by elissa
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- December 18, 2008
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Has anyone else realized that this guy only has one joke? And, that is, if you consider shouting the word "bam" to be a joke. I should immediately state that I have liked every single one of the many Emeril recipes that I've made, and I've heard great things about his restaurant. Still, I could watch the Food Network nonstop if it weren't for Emeril and his uncomfortable hosting persona.
History
I’ll hand it to Emeril – Compared to the Frugal Gourmet, and other such food show hosts from the 80s and 90s, he is a regular Lenny Bruce. I don’t know how many others shared my experience, but back in the day, I found nothing to be more jarring than the image of the Frugal Gourmet julienning herbs to the tune of Vivaldi with that creepy grin on his face, right after watching my beloved Mr. Rogers. Perhaps, as a child, I would have much preferred the jovial Emeril Lagasse and his accessible puns, and cheesy band.
The BAM Thing
In case it isn’t already evident by this point in the guide, Emeril says “bam” a lot. He says it when he adds spices, garnishes, condiments, or basically any ingredient to some other ingredient during his show. This is followed by wild applause from his studio audience.
I am dumbfounded by this reaction. Even though I’ve seen how these “live” studio tapings tend to have the crowd laugh and applaud for post-production enhancement, I have actually spoken to people who find Emeril to be hilarious.
Kick It Up A Notch
In all honesty, Emeril does have another hilarious saying in his rich tapestry of catch phrases: “Kick it up a notch.” This versatile quotation can be used all-inclusively (i.e.: “Let’s kick it up a notch,”), inquisitively (i.e.: “Should we kick it up a notch?”), or definitively (i.e.: “It’s time to kick it up a notch!”). It’s no wonder he has two $3 million yearly contracted shows with The Food Network.
Frown Alert: His Live Show Got Canceled
Don’t get too excited, now. Emeril’s live show got the kabosh from the Food Network this year. Network spokespeople claim it is because the show has achieved every possible milestone, and they want to cancel it in its prime. Or maybe one of Emeril’s mob connections bit the dust and no longer poses a threat. In any case set your TiVo to record reruns.
RECIPES I LIKE
Spicy Linguica & Kale Soup
Great for the cold weather!
Slightly Less Intimidating Than The Frugal Gourmet
Bam Mania
That chocolate mousse has about an inch of powdered sugar on it just because Emeril couldn’t stop himself from saying, “Bam.”
Proud Post-Bam Look
He's Big On Endorsements
He's Got His Own Line Of "Essence" Spices
Something about Emeril’s knowing grin does wonders in advertising. I actually caught my dad paying $2 more for an olive oil spray with Emeril’s face on it, rather than the cheaper Organics brand.
He Hangs With Martha Stewart A Lot
They’re a regular Laurel & Hardy, these two. Martha has to take double the Xanex before these tapings.
Emeril's Sitcom
Emeril’s 2001 self-titled sitcom starring Robert Urich was sadly canceled before it aired. Has anyone seen an episode?
His Restaurant Has Different Colored Napkins To Match Guests' Pants
I guess a lot of fancy places are doing it these days, but Emeril’s was one of the first that I heard of. I guess it’s all about lint coordination.
Still Baffled By The Food Network?
Check out these other informative guides:
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.jpg "mswen")
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Miss Elissa, your keen observation on each of the Food Network hosts is right on. I can’t wait to see your guide on Giada. ;)
.jpg "ElGuapo")
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Dearest Elissa, All I can say is BAM!!!! You are constantly kicking your writing up a notch. You are a notch kicker. Keep Bammin away! Kisses, Emeril
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