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'Top Chef': Melissa says show has helped her father become supportive of her career and queer lifestyle

'Back in Season 12, I was just really trying to prove to my dad cooking is my life,' says Melissa

As 'Top Chef' draws to a close, viewers along with chefs have started to get nostalgic about iconic moments from the show. Tonight, the contestants are in Parma, Italy, touring a cheese factory, understanding more about flavors and the art of cheesemaking.  Impressed by the curiosity and willingness to learn more about the ingredient, the hosts gifted a giant wheel of cheese to the chefs, which had to be carried on their shoulders. 

Later, as they sat down for a lovely dinner, each remembered their favorite moments from the show. Melissa King remembered the time they all went glamping but that's not all she's taking from the show. 

The chef shared how her relationship with her father improved since Season 12 ended for her. "Back in Season 12, I was just really trying to prove to my dad cooking is my life," she says in her green-room interview, which is interrupted by an old clip from the previous season where she tells how her father never participated or showed interest in any of her culinary adventures. 

However, all that changed after Season 12 happened. "My relationship with my father blossomed," she said and added that he has been supportive of her career and her queer lifestyle. Melissa concluded that she is more confident ever and is ready for the finale. For viewers, Melissa has been an easy chef to pick as a contender for the winner given her track record of acing almost every challenge thrown at her. Ever since the beginning of the season, she has been a fan favorite and for good reason. She has been consistent with her performance and impressed judges with her creativity. 

Meanwhile, fans are convinced that Melissa is going to be a winner. "I will only accept Melissa as the winner of #TopChef this season," a viewer commented, while another shared: "Melissa theee King! My girl my girl! She’s doing so so good." A viewer shared, "Melissa has been killing it all season (her dishes have twice been labeled as Michelin Star level). She is clearly the front runner and cooks very innovative food — romaine salad aside." 

Catch all the new episodes of 'Top Chef' on Bravo every Thursday.