Kimball Says ATK Split Is ‘Friendly,’ and He Will Remain in Public Media

Christopher Kimball / Photo provided by Boston Common Media

This week’s announcement from the company behind America’s Test Kitchen, Cook’s Illustrated, and related public food media that its popular host departed after a contract disagreement has left many fans concerned about the future of the programs. But Christopher Kimball said the split is “friendly,” and he may continue working with Boston Common Media, albeit no longer in the same familiar roles.

“Interesting question, isn’t it?” Kimball said to a Current interviewer who asked what his title is now with Boston Common Press. “I don’t know what I am. I’m still on the shows for next year, and we may still be working together.”

“We’re still talking, and it’s friendly,” he added.

Kimball has not granted any other interviews in the wake of Monday’s announcement. He spoke with Current, a news source covering non-profit media, on Tuesday, telling the website he accepted its request “because public media is my home.”

Kimball cofounded Cook’s Illustrated magazine, produced by America’s Test Kitchen, an actual kitchen located in Brookline. The 2,500-square foot space has incubated a public television show by the same name, as well as Cook’s Country, which air in 187 markets; the brand has expanded onto 300 public radio stations and into book publishing, online cooking classes, and a podcast.

Kimball said he plans to continue doing station events, and that he has a new project in the works that “will be very focused on public media.” The new venture could debut in January.

Current reports the bespectacled, bow-tied chef will keep his signature look, no matter what the future holds. “People don’t recognize me without those,” Kimball said.