Gordon Ramsay describes the making of his new documentary as “ripping off the bandaid.” It wasn’t a process of explosive reveals or fiery confrontations, but a slow, deliberate peeling back of layers he’d carefully constructed over decades in the public eye.
The series begins with a surprisingly tender moment: a playful sword fight between Ramsay and his young son, Oscar. This intimate scene quickly transitions to a visit to the construction site of 22 Bishopsgate, a towering London skyscraper, hinting at the immense scale of his ambitions and the pressures that accompany them.
What unfolds is a glimpse into the Ramsay family dynamic, a portrait of everyday life far removed from the screaming and intensity of his television persona. We learn of his deep-seated fear of repeating the patterns of his own childhood, of being an absent father like his own father was to him.
The documentary doesn’t shy away from Ramsay’s difficult upbringing, revealing a childhood marked by poverty and reliance on food vouchers while growing up on a council estate in Glasgow. These early struggles shaped his relentless drive and fueled his determination to succeed.
His wife, Tana, offers a refreshing dose of humor, candidly admitting she initially “hated” him when they first met. This playful banter provides a counterpoint to the more serious themes explored throughout the series, showcasing a genuine and enduring partnership.
The series also provides a fascinating, detailed look at the creation of a Michelin-level restaurant, a process Ramsay himself acknowledges as potentially his “last stake in the ground.” It’s a high-stakes endeavor, demanding perfection and unwavering commitment.
Ramsay reflects on years of harsh criticism, recalling a particularly brutal headline that labeled him a “failed footballer” and disparaged his marriage. These past wounds still resonate, informing his guarded approach to vulnerability.
However, despite the personal revelations, the documentary feels strangely…familiar. Much of the information shared has been touched upon in previous interviews and appearances. The public already possesses a well-formed image of Ramsay – the demanding chef, the devoted father, the complex man.
The sheer volume of his work – managing over 90 restaurants worldwide and starring in numerous television shows – inevitably leads to stress. But the series doesn’t offer any groundbreaking insights into this reality; it simply confirms what many already suspected.
Ultimately, the documentary struggles to find its footing. It lacks the visceral energy of “Hell’s Kitchen” or “Kitchen Nightmares,” and it doesn’t delve deeply enough into the more sensitive aspects of his personal life, particularly recent family events.
Despite Ramsay’s claim that this is his “most raw” and honest project, a sense of distance persists. The series offers glimpses behind the curtain, but never fully pulls it back. For devoted fans, revisiting classic “Kitchen Nightmares” episodes might prove a more satisfying experience.
Across nearly six hours, the documentary presents a curated version of Gordon Ramsay, a man still carefully managing his image, even as he attempts to reveal his true self.
