So true. I used to be addicted to their programming. The ideas and creativity. Now it is all contests and reality tv. Where is the cooking?? I am not interested in a bad show hosted by a winner from one of their contests. I miss the chefs and real cooking!
There was a stretch about twelve years ago when I got laid off and, at least until finding work again, spent a lot of time watching TV. Food Network at that time got me interested in doing stuff that didn’t come from cans or boxes. I especially enjoyed Good Eats and Naked Chef at that time (Alton Brown’s recipe for chocolate mousse from the “Art of Darkness” episode is to die for).
I can think of at least a couple former FN personalities who now have shows on PBS, and I even enjoy watching them.