Hell's Kitchen, the fiery culinary competition show, is rumoured to be making a comeback in the UK after more than a decade. The renowned chef Gordon Ramsay is reportedly preparing to revive the popular programme following its successful run abroad.
The show, which was first introduced to ITV audiences in 2004 with Ramsay at the helm, featured celebrity contestants such as Amanda Barrie in its inaugural series. After Ramsay's departure, the show continued for three more seasons, including one that saw members of the public donning the apron, before it concluded in 2009.
Ramsay then took Hell's Kitchen across the pond, launching the US version on Fox in 2005. He has remained a constant presence on the international edition, which wrapped up its twenty-third season earlier this year.
Last year, rumours began to circulate that Ramsay was in discussions to bring back the fiery cooking contest to the UK. Reports now suggest that Hell's Kitchen could return next year, with hints that Ramsay is set to reclaim his position as head chef.
Additionally, he is said to be contemplating opening restaurants under the Hell's Kitchen brand in the UK, mirroring his successful ventures in the US, reports the Mirror.
An insider revealed to The Sun: "Fans of the show will be doubly thrilled by the prospect of the competition coming back and being able to dine in a Hell's Kitchen restaurant over here. Business-savvy Gordon has watched as the popularity of Hell's Kitchen in the US has helped bring in thousands of customers to his restaurants."
The source described it as a "smart move", adding: "The programme is broadcast in more than 100 countries around the world, so between tourists visiting Britain and developing a whole new audience for the telly contest in the UK, it's an incredibly smart move on his part."
On 27th January this year, Gordon secured trademark rights for the Hell's Kitchen name in the UK, enabling its use in restaurants alongside entertainment purposes and sound and video recordings.
The trademark was registered on 18th April, with renewal scheduled for 27th January, 2035. This indicates they could launch immediately following the show's ITV revival.
The move would mirror his previous establishment of a US chain bearing the Hell's Kitchen brand during the series' American success.
Gordon launched his inaugural restaurant in Las Vegas back in 2018. This venue, billed as the globe's first Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen establishment, sits opposite Caesars Palace.
The location accommodates over 300 diners. According to its website, the restaurant - featuring red and blue kitchens mirroring the programme's team divisions - takes "inspiration" from the television series, and pledges that "guests will feel like they are on the studio set".
Gordon has subsequently opened numerous additional Hell's Kitchen venues throughout America. Further locations span Atlantic City, Miami and Washington DC.
In a tantalising message on the chain's website, Gordon hinted at the nostalgic allure of his restaurants. He revealed: "There is a lot of nostalgia behind this concept of Hell's Kitchen.
"The restaurant on set is exactly the same as the one we have built here, from the (colours of the) red and blue teams to the banquets to the chef tables. And then there is the food – everyone is desperate to eat those scallops!"
