Production on a new BBC cooking show has been halted after chef Marcus Wareing withdrew from the project, just months after he and Gordon Ramsay had publicly ended a 16-year feud. Wareing, a judge on BBC's MasterChef: The Professionals, was slated to host the show, which was being produced by Ramsay's company, Studio Ramsay. The program was described as combining home cooking with human interest stories.
A source told The Sun that Wareing informed producers of his decision last week, leading to the immediate cessation of filming. While the exact reasons for Wareing's withdrawal are unclear, it is not believed to be related to a renewed conflict with Ramsay. "It's a shame as there was so much excitement about the reunion," the source added.
Wareing had previously expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating last year, "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 BBC declined to comment on the situation. Representatives for both Wareing and Ramsay have been contacted for comment.
The setback follows the chefs' reconciliation in 2025, when they publicly put an end to their long-standing animosity. The feud began in 1999 when they co-founded Pétrus, which earned two Michelin stars. Their partnership dissolved in 2008 when Wareing sought to open his own restaurant at London's Berkeley Hotel, leading to a legal dispute over the Pétrus name.
Wareing, 56, had described the fallout as a pivotal moment, telling the Daily Mail in 2023 that the feud was "the best thing that ever happened to both of us" as it spurred him to pursue his own ambitions. He had previously recounted intense working conditions under Ramsay, describing periods of "mental torture" but also moments of camaraderie. Wareing retired from restaurant operations last year but continues his role on MasterChef: The Professionals.
The BBC reportedly remains interested in the show's concept and the talent involved, suggesting the broadcaster may attempt to salvage the project in a different format.