The culinary world is currently focused on the “real” Gordon Ramsay following the global release of his highly anticipated Netflix docuseries, Being Gordon Ramsay, on 18 February 2026. The six-part series has sparked significant conversation across Canada and beyond, as the famously abrasive chef peels back the curtain on his private life, including his difficult upbringing and the immense pressure of expanding his global restaurant empire.
The Man Behind the “Hell’s Kitchen” Persona
While Ramsay is synonymous with high-volume shouting and Michelin-starred perfection, the new documentary highlights a more vulnerable side of the 59-year-old chef. In the series, Ramsay reflects on his “hellish” relationship with his younger brother, Ronnie, who has struggled with heroin addiction for decades. Ramsay emotionally admits, “That could’ve been me,” while discussing the divergent paths their lives took.
The series also delves into Ramsay’s rocky relationship with his late father, whom he describes as an abusive alcoholic. Ramsay shares the poignant regret of never being able to cook for his father or prove his success to him before his passing. These revelations have led critics to describe the show as a “softer side” of the chef, though some reviewers have noted it also serves as an extended look at his business ambitions.
Family Life and Renovations
Beyond the kitchen, the documentary offers a rare glimpse into Ramsay’s home life with his wife, Tana, and their six children. Viewers are given a tour of his recently completed renovations on his £7.5 million London mansion, a project that reportedly faced two years of planning disputes. Ramsay also shared lighthearted moments on social media recently, noting that his youngest son, Jesse, has already mastered his father’s famous “stare-down.”
Current Culinary Pet Peeves
Even in a more reflective state, Ramsay remains opinionated about the state of the food industry. In recent interviews promoting the series, he has taken aim at several modern dining trends:
- The “Mounjaro Menu”: Ramsay slammed the trend of restaurants offering tiny portions specifically for diners on weight-loss medications, calling it “stupid” and a disruption to the communal nature of dining.
- Smashed Avocado: He continues to criticize “lazy” avocado toast, urging chefs to be more imaginative with the ingredient.
- Gender Disparity: Ramsay recently called the lack of women in senior culinary positions “appalling,” signaling a push for more diversity in high-end kitchens.
Business and Legacy
The documentary follows Ramsay as he attempts to launch several new eateries under one roof, a massive undertaking even for a man who has held three Michelin stars since 2001. Despite his television success, Ramsay remains a polarizing figure; while many praise his work ethic and talent, some critics have compared his recent “tell-all” approach to other high-profile celebrities, suggesting a shift from culinary icon to reality TV veteran.
As of 20 February 2026, Being Gordon Ramsay remains a top-trending title on Netflix Canada, as fans and critics alike weigh in on whether the “Bad Boy” of the kitchen has truly mellowed with age.