Buddy Valastro

American baker and reality television personality

Bartolo "Buddy" Valastro Jr. (born March 3, 1977) is an American baker and reality television personality. He is best known as the star of the TLC reality series Cake Boss, which follows the operations of Carlo's Bakery, a family-owned business in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Early Life

Buddy Valastro was born in Hoboken, New Jersey, and raised in Little Ferry, New Jersey. He is the son of Bartolo "Buddy" Sr. and Mary Valastro. His father, Buddy Sr., was born in Lipari, Italy, and immigrated to the United States at the age of 12. Buddy Jr. began working at his family's bakery, Carlo's Bakery, at the age of 11, where he learned the art of baking and cake decorating from his father.

Career

Carlo's Bakery

Buddy Valastro at the Jersey City Mayoral Inauguration

Carlo's Bakery was founded in 1910 by Carlo Guastaferro and was acquired by Buddy's father in 1964. After the death of his father in 1994, Buddy took over the family business at the age of 17. Under his leadership, Carlo's Bakery has expanded from a local bakery to a nationally recognized brand, known for its elaborate custom cakes and pastries.

Television Career

Buddy Valastro rose to fame with the debut of Cake Boss in 2009. The show highlights the day-to-day operations of Carlo's Bakery and showcases Buddy's creative cake designs. The success of Cake Boss led to several spin-off shows, including Next Great Baker, Kitchen Boss, and Buddy's Bakery Rescue.

Other Ventures

In addition to his television career, Buddy has authored several books on baking and cake decorating. He has also launched a line of baking products and opened multiple bakery locations across the United States.

Personal Life

Buddy Valastro is married to Elisabetta "Lisa" Valastro, and they have four children. The family resides in Montville, New Jersey. Buddy is known for his close-knit family and often features them in his television shows.

Philanthropy

Buddy Valastro with the U.S. Army

Buddy Valastro is actively involved in charitable work, often donating cakes and baked goods to various causes. He has supported organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and has participated in events to honor military personnel.

Legacy

Buddy Valastro has become a prominent figure in the baking industry, known for his innovative cake designs and charismatic television presence. His influence extends beyond television, as he continues to inspire aspiring bakers and culinary enthusiasts around the world.

Related Pages

• Cake Boss
• Carlo's Bakery
• Next Great Baker
• Kitchen Boss

Buddy Valastro at a Cake Fair in Orlando, FL