Here's How Much Padma Lakshmi Is Really Worth

Padma Lakshmi might best be known as the long-running host of Top Chef, but she's an incredibly busy woman outside of the TV kitchen, too. Over the years, Lakshmi has done everything from launch her own jewelry and cookware line to modeling and writing numerous cookbooks (via Biography). As one might expect, having a steady TV job and her name on a line of retail products has made Lakshmi a pretty wealthy figure in the world of celebrity chefs. 

Lakshmi told Forbes that a big part of her success — and high-earning income — has been simply getting over the "icky" feeling of straight-up asking for what she wants (via YouTube). "You're there to make money. You're there as a job," Lakshmi said. "I think as women we need to be a little more proactive to be our own advocate." 

Her ex-husband, Salman Rushdie, said in his memoir, "She was ambitious in a way that often obliterated feeling." Perhaps not great for a marriage, but that has to be like rocket fuel for a career (via Eater). Being her "own advocate" has certainly paid off well for the TV personality, and Lakshmi's net worth is in the millions.