Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, known for his multimillionaire status and numerous cookbooks and TV shows, recently expressed that if given the chance, he would prefer to live a “normal” life and run a pub. In an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Young Again podcast with Kirsty Young, Oliver discussed the value of anonymity and community. Despite his wealth and success, he longs for a simpler existence.
Oliver, now 48 years old and with an estimated net worth of £200 million, burst onto the culinary scene in 1999 as “The Naked Chef” on the BBC. He then moved to Channel 4 and hosted the documentary series “Jamie’s Kitchen,” which chronicled the establishment of his restaurant, Fifteen. Throughout his career, he has written a cookbook almost every year. Despite his achievements, Oliver fondly recalls his upbringing in a pub owned by his parents in north Essex and the importance of the pub culture in British society.
Oliver shared that he was never bored or lonely during his childhood, despite being dyslexic and hyperactive. He reminisced about bouncing around in the pub and the sense of belonging it provided. He also mentioned that he didn’t receive pocket money from his parents, but instead worked in the pub, washing pots and cleaning toilets to earn money. However, Oliver acknowledged that his own children, aged five to 21, have faced challenges growing up in the public eye due to his celebrity status. He admitted that being a public figure and raising children is not a good combination.
When asked if he would choose a private life if given the chance to start over, Oliver eagerly responded with a definite “yes.” He expressed gratitude for what he has achieved but admitted that maintaining the persona of “24/7 Jamie Oliver, Family Oliver” is a challenging task. Oliver also discussed his hopes for the future, which revolve around his commitment to campaigns aimed at improving the overall health of the nation.
During the interview, Oliver also addressed the failures in his career, specifically the collapse of his restaurant chain, Jamie’s Italian, in 2019. He described it as a painful experience and revealed that he never took a wage or dividend from the business. Despite the setbacks, Oliver is preparing to open a new restaurant in central London, which he sees as his second chance. He described it as a vulnerable but exciting endeavor and attributed the menu to memories of his adolescence.
In conclusion, the renowned celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, who has achieved great success, fame, and wealth, longs for a simpler life and the sense of community that running a pub would provide. He values anonymity and believes that children and celebrity do not mix well. Oliver acknowledges the failures in his career but remains hopeful for the future as he embarks on a new culinary venture.
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