Katie Lee Biegel is executive producer of CNN's short documentary, 'Top of the World,' which tells the story of the Windows on the World restaurant.
Katie Lee Biegel, a notable figure from the Food Network, has officially taken on the role of executive producer for the new CNN documentary short, Top of the World. This film focuses on the vibrant history of the Windows on the World restaurant, once located atop the World Trade Center. The documentary is set to premiere on CNN on Labor Day and will be available for streaming shortly after.
Top of the World explores the rich history of Windows on the World, which operated for 25 years before tragically closing due to the events of September 11, 2001. Through interviews with key figures like chef Michael Lomonaco and restaurateur Joe Baum, the documentary aims to honor the diverse workforce that contributed to the restaurant's success—comprised of individuals from various countries who spoke approximately 60 languages. Biegel expressed her hope that viewers will resonate with the immigrant stories integral to the restaurant's legacy, highlighting the invaluable contributions of its staff.
The idea for Top of the World first emerged when Biegel discovered Tom Roston’s book, The Most Spectacular Restaurant in the World, while co-hosting Food Network's The Kitchen, which concluded its long run in 2025. Over several years, Katie Lee and her husband, Ryan Biegel, discussed the potential of adapting Roston's work into a documentary. It wasn't until Ryan decided to take initiative that the project gained traction, ultimately collaborating with acclaimed directors Betsy West and Julie Cohen, known for their distinguished documentary films.
In her efforts to bring this documentary to life, Biegel faced significant challenges in securing funding. She recounted moments of uncertainty regarding whether the documentary would come to fruition. “Fundraising was something new that I learned,” she noted, acknowledging the difficulties associated with financial acquisitions. Despite these challenges, the documentary chronicles the rise and fall of Windows on the World, capturing its inception, resilience during economic challenges, and the devastating aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.
This documentary marks a pivotal moment in Biegel's career as she broadens her narrative focus beyond traditional television. With a vision to engage audiences through innovative formats, she is particularly enthusiastic about upcoming projects on digital platforms such as YouTube and Substack. Biegel underscores the significance of storytelling in food and how evolving media presents new opportunities to connect with culinary enthusiasts.
Top of the World premieres at 8 p.m. on September 7 on CNN, followed by streaming options on CNN.com and the CNN app. By centering on the restaurant's history and the immigrant experiences within the culinary industry, the documentary aspires to foster understanding and empathy among viewers in the context of ongoing discussions about immigration.
What this means: Biegel aims to reshape food media while honoring the legacy of Windows on the World, encouraging new dialogues about the essential role immigrants play in the restaurant industry and beyond.
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