Gordon Ramsay Joins the Scripted TV World with a Cooking School Drama Featuring Rachel Bilson on Fox

Gordon Ramsay is set to make his mark in scripted television with a new drama starring Rachel Bilson. The series, inspired by Kathleen Flinn’s memoir The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry, is focused on themes of female empowerment.

Ramsay, a world-renowned chef, has secured his first executive producer credit with this project under Fox Entertainment Studios. The narrative centers on Flinn’s transformative experience at a cooking school in Paris after losing her job as a middle manager. The story promises a blend of humor and heartfelt moments as Kathleen transitions from corporate life to the culinary arts.

Stephanie Danler, known for her work on Apple TV’s Motherfcker*, is adapting the memoir for the screen.

Ramsay will collaborate with Lisa Edwards, Chief Creative Officer of Studio Ramsay, along with Flinn and Olivia Allen as executive producers. The series is currently in development with Fox Entertainment Studios.

Rachel Bilson, celebrated for her roles in The O.C. and recent projects like Accused, adds significant star power to the show. She has a history of collaboration with Fox, and her inclusion is expected to enhance the series’ appeal when it is presented to prospective buyers. Bilson also co-hosts the Broad Ideas podcast and has appeared in notable series like Take Two and Nashville.

Danler, adapted her novel Sweetbitter into a show for Starz, and her current focus is the aforementioned Motherfcker*, featuring Emily Ratajkowski and directed by Lena Dunham.

Studio Ramsay, a joint venture with Fox, has produced extensive television content, including popular shows like Kitchen Nightmares and Gordon Ramsay’s Secret Service. The studio is branching into new territories, with Ramsay taking on behind-the-scenes roles, as seen in Knife Edge: Chasing Michelin Stars, hosted by Jesse Burgess. Recently, Edwards mentioned their efforts to find new culinary talent through social media.

Bilson is represented by CAA, Entertainment 360, and Yorn Levine.