'Hell's Kitchen' Alums' Bombshell Claims About Gordon Ramsay's On Set Behavior

Former "Hell’s Kitchen" contestants are sharing their experiences of working under Gordon Ramsay's intense scrutiny.

Known for his fiery temper and no-nonsense attitude, the celebrity chef’s aggressive outbursts on set have become a signature part of the show.

Now, a few of the reality TV alums are speaking out about their experiences with Gordon Ramsay's infamous wrath, shedding light on just how intense things could get in the kitchen.

Ramsay has built a reputation for his fiery demeanor and no-nonsense approach, especially evident in his reality cooking shows such as "Hell's Kitchen," "MasterChef," and "Kitchen Nightmares."

As many know, Ramsay is notorious for his catchphrases, like “Get out!” and “It’s raw!” which have become iconic in the realm of reality TV cooking competitions.

His aggressive style features pointed critiques, loud outbursts, and significant pressure, all designed to challenge contestants and elevate their culinary abilities. This tough-love method has certainly made him a controversial figure in the culinary scene.

When the cameras are off, Ramsay has noted that his on-screen persona is quite different from his life at home. He portrays himself as a devoted family man, emphasizing his nurturing and supportive nature toward his children and wife.

In a clip from Vice TV's "Dark Side of Reality TV," former contestants, including two past winners—Michael Wray and Ariel Malone—reflect on their intense experiences behind the scenes, giving fans a glimpse into the high-pressure environment Ramsay is famous for creating on the hit series.

Journalist Ivy Knight compares the show to "throwing babies into a lion's mouth," per the clip shared with People Magazine.

First-season contestant Elsie Ramos also spoke out, claiming that "everybody was scared" while on set.

"Let's just put it that way. Everybody was afraid," she added. "I did not expect to see that fiery bully."

Since its debut in 2005, "Hell's Kitchen" has become a reality TV staple, airing 23 seasons with the latest currently on Fox.

For nearly two decades, Ramsay has taken center stage as the fiery host, while the show has racked up five Primetime Emmy Award nominations. The series’ success even inspired multiple Hell’s Kitchen restaurants across the U.S., solidifying its mark on both television and the culinary world.

Tek Moore, who finished 12th in 2009's season six, also spoke out, revealing, "Chefs know how to verbally disembowel people."

"Hell's Kitchen" winner Michael Wray, who took home a $250,000 prize, added, "Any of these guys that came on the show that never really worked in a kitchen before, they all took it the same way," he said. "They took it personal. Gordon, he told me, 'You never tell your employees that they're doing a good job. The instant you tell them that is when they stop trying,'" Wray recalled.

In the past, Ramsay has shared with People Magazine that his tough, on-screen persona is a stark contrast to his demeanor at home.

“I think everyone’s got a good and bad side in them,” he said last year. “I’m just very good at highlighting the bad that turned into something incredible.”

“The kids have brought the most emotion out of me,” Ramsay said of his six children, whom he shares with his wife Tana. “It’s funny, isn’t it? Because everyone thinks, ‘God, you must be an absolute ass to be at home with.’ [But] Tana’s super fierce, an ex-Montessori school teacher. So I’m the softie.”

Despite his tough exterior, Ramsay's dedication to food and excellence is evident. He frequently stresses the significance of maintaining high standards and putting in hard work in the kitchen, asserting that his demanding demeanor encourages contestants to grow and thrive.

While some may perceive him as excessively aggressive, many former contestants have shared that his rigorous approach pushed them to deliver their best performances.

Thanks to his dedication, he has earned multiple Michelin stars and continues to set high standards in the culinary industry.

"The Dark Side of Reality TV’s Hell's Kitchen" episode airs Tuesday, October 8 at 9 p.m. ET on Vice TV.