I find shows with unnecessary distractions like you describe to be downright uncomfortable to watch because they're so stupid. I tried watching
Cooking with Claudine ONCE before I re-named it
Cooking In Front Of Claudine. I switched the channel when Claudine asked Jacques "What is that, basil?" No it's spinach you mental midget.
Neither DH (a Corporate Chef) nor I can stomach Bobby Flay. Believe it or not, I formed an opinion of him when I saw him jump in the cutting board at the Iron Chef battle V. Morimoto. I'm sorry. No matter how good you are with a knife, don't put your shod feet where food will be.