NEW YORK, Nov. 28 (UPI) -- The Food Network has canceled "Emeril Live," permanently halting production on the network's flagship show in two weeks, The New York Times reported.
When master chef Emeril Lagasse signed a five-year contract renewal in May 2003, the cable network described him as the "cornerstone of the network."
However, the media blog FishbowlNY recently reported contract talks between Lagasse and the network's parent corporation, E.W. Scripps, had broken down.
Lagasse will continue to host "Essence of Emeril," a cooking show without a studio audience or band, while repeats of "Emeril Live!" will keep airing for the time being, The Times said.
The Food Network said in a statement Lagasse, who has been with the network since it was established in 1993, remained "an integral part of the Food Network family."
