"LOL" — Yes! Chef fans react to Katsuji leaving the show

The sudden exit of Chef Katsuji Tanabe from NBC's Yes! Chef during Episode 5 has left both fans and other competitors perplexed. Katsuji voluntarily decided to withdraw from the competition, according to host Martha Stewart, who did not elaborate on his reasoning.

The competition's dynamics were changed by this abrupt withdrawal, which left the pool of contestants at seven.

Known for his daring cooking and lively demeanor, Katsuji had been an exceptional competitor, winning over judges with his creative blend of Mexican and Japanese flavors.

Considering how well he had performed in earlier trials, his resignation was especially unexpected. The absence of an explanation has sparked conjecture on the competitive dynamics and forces that might have affected his choice.

The huge impact Katsuji made while on Yes! Chef is reflected in the online discussion. Fans posted a range of responses on social media after the episode aired, ranging from laughter and conjecture to bewilderment and sadness. Others offered their opinions on how his absence may affect the show's development, while others questioned the circumstances surrounding his abrupt departure.

An admirer of Yes! Chef posted on X,

"After all that Katsuji left? LOL. #YesChef"

Another fan wrote on social media,

"I thought it was odd that they just casually said that the most contentious chef on the show left. And that’s it. Nothing else. Maybe something happened behind the scenes."

"I hopeChef Katsuji is okay. That being said, I was really looking forward to him actually getting kicked off the show, on camera," a tweet read.

More fans of Yes! Chef shared their views on Katsuji's exit from the show.

A netizen questioned,

"Anybody know why Katsuji left Yes Chef? 🤔 @nbc #yeschef"

An X user joked,

"If Katsuji was still there he probably would have bogarted the fish eggs, too. 😂 #YesChef"

"(Started a new cooking show ..) I’ve NEVER liked Katsuji on Top Chef and I really dislike him on “Yes Chef” .. what a d*ck #YesChef," a comment read.

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Chef Katsuji self-eliminates from Yes! Chef Episode 5

Both viewers and other competitors were shocked by Chef Katsuji Tanabe's shocking self-elimination from Yes! Chef Episode 5, which aired on May 26, 2025.

At the start of the show, host Martha Stewart announced that Katsuji had left the competition on his own initiative, but she did not give any particular explanation. The dynamics of the show took an unexpected turn when the contestant pool shrank to seven due to this abrupt departure.

Shortly before the season's first individual cook-off, in which competitors produced family-style meals evaluated by their peers, Katsuji Tanabe left Top Chef. His abrupt departure was noteworthy because he was known for his combative dealings, particularly with Chef Michelle Francis.

Many people are surprised and curious about his decision, which has led to suspicion regarding his disappearance.

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Fans can watch more episodes of Yes! Chef on NBC.