Production on a new BBC cooking show has been halted after chef Marcus Wareing withdrew from the project, ending a planned collaboration with his former mentor Gordon Ramsay. The show, intended to "combine home cooking with extraordinary human stories," was being made by Studio Ramsay, Ramsay's production company.
A source indicated that Wareing informed producers of his decision to withdraw last week, leading to the immediate halt of work on the program. While the specific reason for Wareing's departure remains unclear, it is not believed to be related to a renewed feud with Ramsay. "It's a shame as there was so much excitement about the reunion," the source told The Sun.
Despite the setback, the BBC and Ramsay's team are reportedly exploring options to salvage the show, as the concept and talent involved were well-received. Wareing had previously expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating in 2025, "This is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside Gordon again. It's been many years since we last shared a kitchen, and I can't wait to get started."
The collaboration marked the end of a long-standing feud between the two chefs. Wareing, a MasterChef: The Professionals judge, and Ramsay, who was once his mentor, had a public falling out that lasted nearly two decades. The chefs worked together for 15 years, with Wareing serving as sous chef at Ramsay's Aubergine restaurant. Ramsay was even best man at Wareing's wedding and is godfather to his eldest child.
Their professional relationship soured in 2008 when Wareing sought to go solo and take over the lease at London's Berkeley Hotel, leading to a legal dispute. Ramsay retained the Pétrus restaurant name, while Wareing opened his own establishment at The Berkeley. Wareing later described the fallout as a period of "mental torture" and noted that they came close to physical altercations. However, in 2025, the chefs publicly reconciled, sharing a photograph of them together on social media.
Wareing, who retired from restaurant management last year, has continued his role as a judge on BBC's MasterChef: The Professionals. He has previously stated that their past conflict was ultimately beneficial, pushing him to pursue new ambitions.