Jamie Oliver

Charm and passion

Jamie Oliver is known throughout the world for his television programs Jamie's School Dinners, Jamie's Kitchen, Oliver’s Twist, Jamie's Kitchen Australia three series of The Naked Chef and the accompanying books. He is head chef at the prestigious Fifteen restaurant in London.

Jamie's been a chef from an early age, having been virtually raised in his parent's highly respected pub in Essex. At eight he was peeling potatoes and podding peas in the kitchen; by eleven he could julienne vegetables like a pro. Jamie entered Westminster College at 16 and after graduation spent some time in France where he began his formal career as a chef before returning to England. Jamie first caught the eye of television viewers in 1997 when he was featured in a documentary on the top London eatery The River Café. His charm and passion for cooking leapt off the screen.

The day after the documentary aired Jamie was approached by TV producers to make his own series – this became The Naked Chef. Jamie's approach to cooking, all about pairing the highest quality ingredients with simple preparation, struck a note with people worldwide. As a result, his TV shows are seen in over 50 countries and his books have sold millions internationally.