The celebrity chef, restaurateur, and Food Network host recently posted what the hip, young people would refer to as a “thirst trap” on the ‘gram in honor of his 53rd birthday. In the new photo, Symon took a moment to show off his ink and his abs in a self-appreciation post he shared on Oct. 10.  The image featured a shirtless Symon—with only his neck to his waist in view—flexing his muscles alongside an authentic note filled with an important message of self-confidence and pride. “Wasn’t gonna post because quite honestly would give my friends a lot of shit if they posted this … but hell with it ..,” he joked in the caption.  “[I] have worked my ass off for [the] past 18 months to get in shape for my 53rd bday .. and I’m proud that I was able to get myself back in shape,” the celebrity chef admitted. Symon continued: “lost about 12 lbs .. got some of my muscle back .. & am ready for the next 53 years .. (gotta be like pap) .. age is a number nothing more .. keep moving .. peace MS [Michael Symon].”  Symon, whose actual birthday is Sept. 19, didn’t receive any flack from friends in the comments. Instead, a whole slew of super happy fans supported the chef and helped celebrate his dedication.  Fellow famous foodie Andrew Zimmern wrote, “Now THAT is the proper use of a flex. INSPIRE and MOTIVATE others … love you buddy …” Chef Justin Sutherland also chimed in, writing, “Get that work Chef 💪🏾.”  If you want to see more of Chef Symon, be sure to tune into Symon’s Dinners Saturdays at 12 p.m. ET. on Food Network or streaming on Discovery+. Symon is also working on a cookbook called Simply Symon Suppers, which is reported to be out next fall.  More Pop Culture:

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