Gordon Ramsay Admits Daughter’s Culinary Choice Stirred Mixed Emotions
Renowned celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay has spoken candidly about his daughter’s latest career move, describing his feelings as a blend of pride and frustration. The 58-year-old TV chef, famed for his fiery personality and expertise in fine dining, revealed that his youngest daughter, Matilda “Tilly” Ramsay, has embarked on formal cookery training at Ballymaloe Cookery School in Ireland—rather than learning directly from her famous father.
In an interview with Closer magazine, Ramsay did not hide his initial reaction, jokingly admitting that the situation “does f*** me off from a chef’s point of view.” He stressed his surprise and slight irritation that Tilly, instead of seeking guidance from a Michelin-starred chef in her own household, chose to attend cookery lessons elsewhere. “Does she think that three stars is not relevant today?” he quipped, referencing his own highly decorated culinary career.
Yet, despite his cheeky exasperation, Ramsay expressed profound respect for Tilly’s independent approach. He highlighted that she paid her own way, “worked, saved the money, and has gone off to culinary school.” The decision, he said, was entirely her own, and he waved her off with mixed feelings. “I said goodbye and put her on the ferry and I thought, ‘F***, why didn’t she ask me to teach her? Is that my first big major f*** up?’”
This moment, Ramsay reflected, signified an important milestone not only as a parent, but as someone in the public eye often accused of nepotism. He remarked, “It just goes to show how unspoilt my kids are. They’re individually following their own path and aren’t dependent on their parents. I think that’s a good call.” According to Ramsay, his children—Megan, Jack, Holly, and Tilly—have all opted for lives shaped by their own decisions, rather than simply relying on their father’s fame or fortune.
Turning his attention to his son Jack, Ramsay described a similar sense of pride in his children’s choices. Jack, aged 25, has pursued a career in the Royal Marine Commandos, steering clear of the entertainment industry. The chef noted the demanding nature of the training and the relatively modest starting salary of around £17,500 for a newly qualified Royal Marine. Despite the challenges, Ramsay said the discipline and achievement meant more than any advantages fame could offer.
“He didn’t ask to be born into a sort of famous family, and he’s doing as I did—he’s grafting, fending for himself, becoming independent, and not relying on his parents,” Ramsay remarked. He recalled telling his children, “You’ll appreciate it more if you’re not handed it on a plate,” highlighting the value he places on self-made success.
Throughout the interview, Ramsay was keen to dispel any notions that his family’s lifestyle has made his children complacent or reliant on their surname. He emphasised that none of his children have asked for handouts and instead have been committed to forging their own careers. Asked about his own motivations, Ramsay insisted that money is not the driving force for him or his offspring.
The chef’s perspective offers an interesting insight into the personal challenges that come with fame, particularly around parenting. While his professional reputation is built on high standards and control in the kitchen, at home he appears to value resilience and independence above all else.
Ultimately, Ramsay’s revelations highlight the universal dilemmas of parenthood—balancing pride in his children’s choices with the bittersweet sensation of being left out. For the Ramsay family, it seems that the real recipe for success lies in learning to let go and allowing each member to find their own way, even if that means seeking inspiration outside of the family kitchen.