celebrity friends

Gordon Ramsay’s inspiring life story: His close friendship with the Beckhams and his soccer dreams

Ramsay has even taught Beckham’s son how to cook.

NOVEMBER 6, 2025 5:04 PM ESTNOV 6, 2025, 5:04 PM EST

Born on November 18, 1966, in Scotland and raised in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, Gordon Ramsay’s childhood was far from easy. His father struggled with addiction, and by age 16, Gordon had left home with his sister to live independently. These challenges became a driving force, shaping his relentless ambition and defining the resilience he’s known for today.

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Ramsay entered the culinary world almost by chance, but he’s spent every day since building a legendary career. Before becoming one of the world’s most renowned chefs, he dreamed of a professional sports career, a passion he shares with David Beckham.

Gordon Ramsay photographed in his kitchen, circa 1999.

He was talented enough to sign with the Glasgow Rangers, but a knee injury cut that dream short. He considered joining the police or the Royal Navy, but ultimately enrolled in a hospitality school while juggling two jobs to pay rent. In hindsight, what seemed like a backup plan was actually his destiny.

Chef Gordon Ramsey with his staff in the kitchen at his Chelsea restaurant after being awarded three Michelin stars. Ramsey is only the second British chef to be awarded three stars in the French gastronomy bible Michelin.

Even as a student, Ramsay stood out for his talent, perfectionism, and bold ideas. This caught the attention of the legendary chef Marco Pierre White, who took him under his wing.

After four years of mentorship, Ramsay moved to France to work at a ski resort restaurant and then served as a private chef on a luxury yacht in the Bahamas. Upon returning to the UK, his first mentor invited him to join Aubergine in Chelsea, where Ramsay earned his first Michelin star in 1994, the first of three for the restaurant.

Gordon Ramsey, celebrated with wife Tana and friends and family at the opening of his latest eatery, The River Restaurant.

Ramsay’s name began to resonate in the culinary world, and he soon embarked on his own path. His first solo venture was in Dubai, and his restaurant empire expanded to Japan, the United States, Singapore, France, and China.

Ramsay’s fame, with 17 Michelin stars to his name, crossed over into television thanks to his dynamic on-screen personality. He debuted in 1998 with 'Boiling Point,' impressing viewers with his fiery temper, directness, and passion for cooking.

Chef Gordon Ramsay, wife Tana Ramsay and children celebrate Hell's Kitchen 100th episode milestone on the Hell's Kitchen set on February 19, 2010

He later starred in 'Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares,' 'Gordon Behind Bars,' and 'Hell’s Kitchen,' while also appearing as a judge on 'The F Word,' 'MasterChef,' and 'MasterChef Junior.'

When it comes to his personal life, he married in 1996 to Tana (Cayetana Elizabeth) Hutcheson, a former teacher. The couple has six children. Megan, twins Jack and Holly, Matilda, and Oscar. His daughter Matilda, also known as Tilly, has followed in her father’s footsteps with her own tableware collection.

Jack and Holly Ramsey, Gordon Gamsay's children participate in the 2018 London Marathon in central London

Ramsay is eagerly counting down to another special event, the wedding of his daughter Holly to Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty. Holly shared that it will be a Christmas wedding, with her sisters serving as bridesmaids, promising a celebration filled with familiar faces from both the UK and the US.

Gordon Ramsay’s friendship with The Beckhams:

David Beckham and Gordon Ramsay first met decades ago, and their bond has grown into a deep friendship, with the families considering each other part of their inner circle.

Gordon Ramsay and David Beckham attend the Cinespia Presents "Sabrina" At The Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Their connection began when Beckham hired Ramsay for his 2006 World Cup celebration party, and it strengthened when both families lived in Los Angeles, during which Victoria and Tana became close friends. Their children’s similar ages also helped nurture the next generation of their friendship.

The two families enjoy shared experiences, from trips to Valladolid to summer vacations at sea, Christmases, and birthdays. Ramsay has even taught Beckham’s son how to cook. Professionally, they have also partnered, with their first joint venture being Union Street Café in London’s Borough neighborhood.

Gordon Ramsay and David Beckham attend a game between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center

In the UK, he has restaurants in Liverpool, Manchester, Edinburgh, and London, the latter chosen this week to celebrate a special milestone with Beckham. Ramsay decided to host a dinner for his longtime friend after receiving the title of Knight of the Order of the British Empire. The dinner was attended by the former footballer’s family (minus son Brooklyn) and close friends.

David Beckham has earned countless friends throughout his successful career, and among them, Gordon Ramsay stands out. The famed chef, who is known worldwide, bonded with the soccer star in Los Angeles and has since built a great friendship as well as a professional partnership.