On Thursday's (April 24) episode of Top Chef: Destination Canada, the 22nd season of the show, contestant Vincenzo Loseto became overcome with emotion as he reflected on the death of his mentor, Chef James Kent (pictured above with well-known celebrity chefs and brothers Michael and Bryan Voltaggio).
Loseto did not have a great judging on last week's elimination challenge, and it left him questioning who he has really been cooking for.
"I think you had this conundrum in your head, like 'I'm cooking my food, this is me.' No, this is where you worked," pointed out fellow contestant Tristan Epps, adding, "Flex you. Don't flex other people's accomplishments."
At these observations, which Loseto agreed with, he spoke in a talking-head about the loss of his mentor.
"I worked for James Kent for quite some time. He's played a huge influence in my career. Unfortunately, he passed earlier this year," said Loseto, adding, "There's a time and a place for a story, and I think I was just forcing it."
He continued, "[Chef Kent] made me who I am. The last few challenges, I've kind of been cooking for him, which is probably not what you'd want. Naturally, if I'm doing myself, I'm going to impress him anyways."
Kent died of a heart attack in June 15, 2024, at the age of 45. He was a well-regarded chef in New York City, having helmed the two-Michelin-starred Saga, in addition to two other restaurants, Overstory and Crown Shy.
Kent's death was announced on Saga's Instagram account. reads, "We are heartbroken to share that James Kent passed away unexpectedly earlier today. The Saga Hospitality Group family is focused on supporting each other and most importantly Kelly, Gavin and Avery as we grieve James’ loss. Crown Shy, Saga and Overstory will be closed tomorrow: Sunday, June 16th. Celebrate Father’s Day with your loved ones."
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Kent left behind wife, Kelly, and two children, Gavin, 16, and Avery, 14. In a second Instagram post two days after his death, Kent's restaurant family said that they were "going to support [Kelly, Gavin and Avery] just as James supported us."
reads, "The reality that Jamal James Kent is no longer here has barely begun to set in. While this is an incredibly difficult time for all who knew James, we’re rallying together and taking comfort in the community that James built. Yesterday, we spent the day together at Crown Shy celebrating his legacy. We cried, we laughed, we ate, and we cried some more. Thank you to all who were there and who have shared memories of James.
"James was a singularly kind and supportive leader. He was unendingly loyal, and he had the back of every person who worked and works at Crown Shy, Saga and Overstory. Kelly, Gavin and Avery live near the restaurants, so this has always been a family affair and we feel like extended members of the Kent clan. We are going to support them just as James supported us."
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