Buddy Valastro

Buddy Valastro is a celebrity baker and TV personality best known for starring on TLC’s Cake Boss. Valastro grew up in Hoboken, New Jersey, and began working at Carlo’s Bakery, the family business, at age 11 alongside his father. At 17, he began taking over the bakery and expanding its reach.

Valastro rose to fame in 2009 when Cake Boss premiered on TLC, showcasing his elaborate cake designs and family-run establishment. The show became a hit and led to multiple spin-offs, including Next Great Baker, Kitchen Boss, Bake it Like Buddy and Bake You Rich. He also appeared on Buddy vs. Duff, a competition series with fellow baker Duff Goldman.

In addition to his television work, Valastro has expanded Carlo’s Bakery into a nationwide brand with multiple locations and in addition to the launch of several product lines. He has authored cookbooks, made guest appearances on talk shows and cooking competitions, and opened restaurants including Buddy V’s Ristorante.

Valastro married Lisa Valastro in 2001. The couple has four children: Sofia (born in 2003), Bartolo “Buddy” III (born in 2004), Marco (born in 2007) and Carlo (born in 2011).