Celebrity chef Tom Kerridge has opened up about his relationships with fellow culinary icons, including his honest perspective on Jamie Oliver.
For decades, Tom has shared the culinary stage with celebrated chefs such as Jamie Oliver, Marco Pierre White, and Gordon Ramsay. Together, they have defined a generation of British cuisine. Naturally, when such talented figures operate at the peak of their profession, a level of rivalry is inevitable.
During an appearance on the Red Talks podcast with Red Richardson, Tom discussed how their relationships shifted from competition to friendship — though occasional tensions did arise. When Red mentioned Jamie Oliver recalling a time Marco Pierre White insulted him, saying he initially thought Marco liked him before being put down, Tom responded thoughtfully.
READ MORE: Three Gloucestershire Pubs Shortlisted for National Pub and Bar Awards 2026
READ MORE: Gloucestershire Councillor Compares Bristol to ‘Mordor’ and Endorses Three Counties Alliance
“Well, I can imagine,” Tom said. “But then, is that about headline grabbing? Jamie’s magic. He’s got brilliant energy, a great cook, and a remarkable ability to connect with people. Plus, he sells books globally.”
Before this, Tom explained how his rapport with Jamie and others has matured since their mid-30s.
“As it’s grown and developed, the industry has become much more collaborative,” he said. “We all share the same challenges. No one’s pretending they’re thriving — everyone agrees this is a tough time. So any rivalry we had? It’s mostly gone. Even if it still exists among younger chefs aiming for Michelin-star levels, my generation are all great mates now.”
Tom’s remarks come amid ongoing hardships in the hospitality sector, which is grappling with rising energy costs exacerbated by geopolitical tensions in Iran. This builds on years of crisis following the Ukraine war and the Covid-19 lockdowns that shuttered countless restaurants.
Many businesses are struggling just to break even. However, speaking to the Sunday Times, Tom emphasized that passion, not profit, drives him.
“When you work in hospitality, it’s not just about making money,” he said. “It’s a vocation filled with wonderful people. There’s a responsibility to keep doing what you love, no matter how tight the margins get.”
Fans can catch the return of The Great British Menu tonight (Thursday, 9 April) at 6pm on BBC Two.