'Top Chef Masters' Named “Best Reality TV Spin-Off”

On Thursday, April 11, the inaugural RealityWanted Awards rolled out the red carpet in Los Angeles for some familiar Bravo faces. Hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race’s Michelle Visage, the awards recognized a variety of reality categories, including everything from “Sore Loser” to “Bad Ass Crew.” 

We caught up with executive producers Andrew Ward and Kristen Moss to get their thoughts on all things Bravo!

What makes Bravo reality shows and its stars different from the reality programming on other networks?
Bravo is a network that has changed the face of reality television. Of any network, it's amazing how they have succeeded in maintaining some of the highest-rated reality shows. Reality TV is no longer the sub-par television that society made it out to be and Bravo is partly to thank for that. Bravo also has faith in their cast members and formulas that work. The spin-offs and franchises that continue to arise make Bravo a must-watch network for all things reality.

Why do you think Top Chef Masters edged out its competition to win the “Spin-Offs” category?
Top Chef is one of those shows that many people are in absolute awe of. From the cast members to the competitions, the hosts and guest judges, to the mouth-watering, untouchable food displayed season after season, it's a must-watch. Take the format of Top Chef and bring to the table some of the most world-renowned chefs of our time and you have a spin-off that is not to be missed. Being a fly on the wall as these artists and food geniuses create one of a kind masterpieces is truly a privilege offered to the public.

Out of the Bravo shows and stars nominated, was there any one that you were surprised to see not take the win? Why or why not?
I truly think that Lisa Vanderpump could have secured the win for "Best Female Personality." Her fans adore her. With her new show, Vanderpump Rules, and her appearance on Dancing with the Stars airing during the voting process, it was the perfect formula to rally her fans to vote for her in the public vote.

In the same breath, the amazing NeNe Leakes also had a nomination for "Female Personality." Her empire is only growing, which is allowing her worldwide stardom. Everyone wants to know what Nene will be up to next. I believe that her fans would have supported her in this category had they been prompted for the support.

One more person that really deserves to be recognized, and has become a pioneer in reality TV is Andy Cohen. Mr. Cohen has taken his success from behind the scenes and parlayed that into a successful career as host and author, while maintaining his executive title. If I were to make a list of some of the most powerful people in the reality TV industry, Andy Cohen would certainly be on it. Andy Cohen was up for ‘Best Male Personality’ and I know that not only are his fans behind him, but the industry is certainly behind him as well. We're sure he will make into the nominations again in the years to come.”

Mazel tov to our Bravo winners! For the complete list of nominees and winners, click HERE.