Mexican singer Valeria Cuevas recently wrapped up her journey on ‘Top Chef VIP.’ She became the sixth contestant to leave the show, and the second woman eliminated this season, following Karina. Despite her departure, Cuevas left feeling like a winner.
The challenge that led to her exit saw her competing against Nicole Curiel. Cuevas presented a dish she named “My Root” to the judges. She explained using epazote, bay leaf, chicken stock, and mushrooms as the main ingredient. However, a crucial misstep with the spice level sealed her fate. The judges told her the chili flavor overpowered everything else.
The panel also noted that her kidney bean cream was delicious and had a good consistency. Yet, it was too salty. Chef Betty, one of the judges, specifically pointed out that Cuevas should have chosen a different type of chili. Guajillo chili, which Cuevas used, isn’t known for being very spicy. These errors in her cooking led to the decision to remove her from the competition.
The 29-year-old singer shared her heartfelt thoughts as she departed. She expressed gratitude for the friendships she made on the show. “What a delight to have shared with you,” she said. “The best feast I’ve given myself is having your friendship. So be sure that a piece of you goes with me.”
Her mother, actress and singer Aída Cuevas, offered words of encouragement on social media. “Sometimes you win, other times you lose, but you always learn a lesson, my love. Cheer up!” she commented.
This season of ‘Top Chef VIP’ has a structured weekly schedule. Elimination rounds happen on Mondays and Thursdays. Immunity challenges are held on Tuesdays and Fridays. Wednesdays and Sundays are dedicated to salvation rounds, where contestants can earn their safety. There are no episodes on Saturdays.
Before Valeria Cuevas, several other well-known figures were eliminated. The list includes Sergio Goyri, Christopher Vélez, Karina, and Sergio Sendel. Elvis Crespo also left the competition, though his departure was due to him abandoning the show.
You can catch ‘Top Chef VIP’ from Sunday to Friday. It airs at 7:00 pm ET / 6:00 pm CT on Telemundo. The show is also available for live streaming on Telemundo’s app and Peacock.
Valeria Cuevas’s Canceled Wedding
In other news, Valeria’s mother, Aída Cuevas, recently spoke to the press. She revealed that her daughter Valeria called off her wedding. This surprising decision came just days before the planned ceremony. Aída shared some thoughts on why her daughter might have made this choice.
Aída, known as “The Mariachi Princess,” made it clear she supports Valeria completely. “I have always tried to teach my children to be happy in life,” Aída stated. This unwavering support came despite the money and expectations already invested in the event.
The 61-year-old actress admitted that she had already spent a good amount of money on Valeria’s wedding. However, she wasn’t upset about the cancellation. Aída stressed that getting married requires absolute certainty. “After money, your children’s happiness comes first,” she explained. “I think it’s better to decide before crying later… I tell you from experience.” Aída herself has been married twice.
When asked by reporters if infidelity or “new loves” were behind the cancellation, Aída responded firmly. “Oh no, those rumors, really, how awful,” she said, shutting down any speculation.

