Mario Batali, the once-celebrated chef known for his vibrant personality, signature orange Crocs, and Italian culinary empire, has been making headlines for reasons far removed from his restaurant kitchens.
In 2017, multiple allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced against him, leading to a dramatic fall from grace and a significant shift in both his professional and personal life. This naturally begs the question: Is Mario Batali still married? Let’s take a look at the chef’s personal life in the wake of the scandal and where his marriage stands today.
Mario Batali’s Marriage: A Timeline
Before the controversy, Mario Batali seemed to have it all. He was a renowned chef, cookbook author, and television personality with a successful restaurant empire and a seemingly stable family life. He married Susi Cahn in 1994 in a Caribbean ceremony. They have two sons together, Benno and Leo.
Here’s a quick timeline of their relationship:
| Event | Year |
|---|---|
| Mario Batali and Susi Cahn meet at a food event | 1992 |
| Batali and Cahn get married | 1994 |
| Benno Batali is born | 1997 |
| Leo Batali is born | 2000 |
| Multiple sexual misconduct allegations against Mario Batali surface | 2017 |
| Batali steps away from his restaurant empire | 2017 |
| Batali and Cahn announce their separation | 2018 |
| Batali and Cahn’s divorce finalized | 2022 |
For over two decades, Susi Cahn remained largely out of the public eye, focusing on raising their sons and her own successful career. While Batali’s boisterous persona dominated the culinary scene, Cahn preferred a quieter life. This difference in their public profiles only intensified the scrutiny on their marriage after the scandal broke.
The Impact of the Sexual Misconduct Allegations
The 2017 allegations against Mario Batali painted a picture that sharply contrasted with his public image. Multiple women accused him of inappropriate touching, sexual harassment, and aggressive behavior, spanning years of alleged misconduct. The fallout was swift and severe.
Batali was fired from ABC’s “The Chew,” where he was a co-host, and faced a public backlash that led to him stepping away from the daily operations of his restaurants. His restaurant group, Batali & Bastianich Hospitality Group, eventually cut ties with him completely, removing his name from the business.
While Batali issued apologies and acknowledged his “past behavior,” the damage was done. The allegations not only tarnished his career but also put immense strain on his personal life, ultimately leading to the breakdown of his marriage.
Is Mario Batali Still Married to Susi Cahn?
The simple answer is no. After 26 years of marriage, Mario Batali and Susi Cahn finalized their divorce in 2022. The couple had announced their separation back in 2018, shortly after the sexual misconduct allegations came to light.
While neither Batali nor Cahn has publicly commented on the specifics of their separation, it’s clear that the scandal played a significant role in the dissolution of their marriage. The allegations created a rift that proved too difficult to overcome, marking the end of their long-term relationship.
Life After Divorce: Mario Batali Today
Since the divorce, both Mario Batali and Susi Cahn have maintained a low profile. Batali has largely retreated from the public eye, with occasional sightings at food events or around his Michigan home. He sold his share of the remaining restaurants he co-owned with Bastianich in 2019, effectively ending his direct involvement in the restaurant industry.
Cahn, on the other hand, has continued to focus on her work. She is the daughter of Miles and Lillian Cahn, founders of the Coach leather goods company. She has been involved in various ventures, including her own line of artisan preserves called “The Coach Farm.”
Mario Batali’s Attempts at a Comeback
There have been whispers of Mario Batali attempting a comeback, exploring new ventures in the food industry. However, these attempts have been met with mixed reactions. The public remains divided on whether he deserves a second chance, with many feeling that his actions have had lasting consequences for the victims and the culinary world as a whole.
The Legacy of Mario Batali
Mario Batali’s story is a cautionary tale of how quickly success can unravel. Once a celebrated chef and a household name, he is now largely remembered for the scandal that brought him down. His legacy is a complex one, marked by both his culinary achievements and his personal failings.
While his contributions to popularizing Italian cuisine in America are undeniable, they are now overshadowed by the consequences of his actions. The sexual misconduct allegations not only impacted his own life but also served as a wake-up call for the restaurant industry, sparking conversations about workplace culture, power dynamics, and accountability.
Conclusion: A Chef’s Fall From Grace
The question “Is Mario Batali still married?” leads to a much larger story about the downfall of a celebrity chef and the enduring impact of his actions. While his marriage ultimately ended in divorce, the consequences of the sexual misconduct allegations extend far beyond his personal life.
Batali’s story serves as a reminder that talent and success do not excuse harmful behavior. It also highlights the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, regardless of their status or position.
FAQs
Is Mario Batali still involved in any restaurants?
No, Mario Batali is no longer involved in any restaurants. He sold his remaining shares in his former restaurant group in 2019.
What is Mario Batali doing now?
Mario Batali has kept a relatively low profile since the scandal. He is said to be exploring new ventures in the food industry but has not made a significant return to the public eye.
Did Mario Batali ever face criminal charges for the allegations against him?
While several women accused Batali of sexual misconduct, he did not face criminal charges. One case was investigated by the New York Police Department but closed due to insufficient evidence and the statute of limitations expiring.
How many restaurants did Mario Batali own?
At the height of his career, Mario Batali was involved in numerous restaurants across the globe. His restaurant group, Batali & Bastianich Hospitality Group, once had a vast portfolio of establishments.
Has Mario Batali publicly addressed the allegations against him?
Yes, Mario Batali has issued public apologies for his “past behavior.” However, the specifics of his statements and the extent of his accountability have been met with mixed reactions.