Tom Kerridge has offered a revealing glimpse into what fellow culinary superstar Gordon Ramsay is genuinely like away from the cameras, asserting that the fiery chef cultivates a distinct on-screen "persona" that differs from his real-life character. Kerridge, who makes his return to television screens this evening on the popular cooking competition Great British Menu, shared these insights during a broader conversation about television cookery icons, which also included fond reflections on the late, great chef and restaurateur Keith Floyd, whom he described as "brilliant."
Praise for Culinary Colleagues
It was not merely one chef who received accolades from Kerridge. He emphasised that every television chef brings their "own different skillset" to the table, highlighting Saturday Morning star James Martin as "so good live" and a "really good cook." Additionally, Kerridge mentioned Long Weekends' Rick Stein, noting his "deep passion for everything," whether it be poetry or food. Regarding Gordon Ramsay, Kerridge added that he possesses "this brilliant Gordon energy," a characteristic that defines his vibrant presence.
The Infamous "Idiot Sandwich" Sketch
The discussion touched upon whether Ramsay could "get away" with some of his more memorable antics in today's climate, specifically referencing the notorious "idiot sandwich" sketch from The Late Late Show with James Corden in 2015. This segment has become emblematic of Ramsay's confrontational television style, yet Kerridge's comments suggest there is much more to the man behind the outbursts.
Kerridge's Candid Podcast Revelations
Speaking on the Red Talks podcast last year, Kerridge elaborated that Gordon Ramsay has an on-screen "persona and character" crafted for entertainment, particularly for American audiences, but is a "phenomenal human" in reality. He elaborated, "He is brilliant energy, and do you know what? And that's kind of...it's kind of like a Gordon persona and character that's being filmed for - even more like Stateside - like a kind of energy, but in real life, Gordon is a phenomenal human."
Kerridge continued, "He's one of those guys that's just...he's one of those guys who's incredibly good at everything that he does. He's funny; he's actually really empathetic and kind. He builds businesses. He's got people around him that have been with him for such a long time, and he's one of those guys that's...not a control freak, but he is over everything, the fine detail."
World-Class Chef Beyond Television
Further praising Ramsay's culinary prowess, Kerridge stated, "And he's one of the first British chefs to win three Michelin stars. I mean he's...forget all the TV stuff. Just as a cook and as a chef, absolutely world-class. Like, one of the best in the world ever. And like, and you just go, you know, and then you add all of the other stuff to him and he's amazing, Gordon."
Kerridge's Personal Health Journey
In related news, Tom Kerridge recently opened up about a health diagnosis following his successful battle with alcohol addiction. He was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which he views as a "superpower," as noted by The Times' Andrew Billen. When questioned if he believed the condition was connected to his past drinking, Kerridge responded, "I loved the chaos of drinking but you're kind of right. Alcohol addiction comes from an incredibly selfish place. It's the one space where you escape into your own world. There isn't anything else that's happening. You're the only person who knows how you feel at that exact moment."
Viewers can catch Tom Kerridge on Great British Menu tonight (Tuesday, April 21), airing from 7pm to 8pm, where he continues to showcase his culinary expertise and engaging personality.
