Ainsley Harriott MBE
EMMA Supporter
Ainsley Harriott was born on 28 February 1957 in Paddington, London, and is a celebrated British chef, television personality, and author. He is renowned for his vibrant and engaging style, which has made him a beloved figure in British households. He was a regular attendee of the EMMA show and supported EMMA’s goals towards social cohesion within communities.
Raised in a musical family with his father, Chester Harriott, a talented pianist and singer, Ainsley was exposed to creativity from a young age. However, his true passion lay in the culinary arts.
Ainsley trained at Westminster Kingsway College and honed his skills in several prestigious kitchens. His early career saw him becoming head chef at the Long Room at Lord’s Cricket Ground, where he developed his distinctive approach to food, combining classic techniques with bold flavours.
Ainsley’s break into television came in the early 1990s when he became the resident chef on BBC’s Good Morning with Anne and Nick, leading to his iconic role on Ready Steady Cook, a show he hosted for 16 years, cementing his household name. His approachable and energetic personality and his love for cooking made him a natural on-screen, where he brought a sense of fun and ease to food preparation, often encouraging viewers to experiment in their kitchens.
Ainsley’s success in television expanded beyond Ready Steady Cook. He presented numerous other cooking shows, such as Can’t Cook, Won’t Cook, Ainsley’s Barbecue Bible, Ainsley’s Meals in Minutes, and Ainsley’s Gourmet Express, showcasing his versatility and ability to adapt to different cooking styles.
Ainsley’s television presence was not limited to the UK. He gained international recognition with The Ainsley Harriott Show in the United States and Ready… Set… Cook! in Australia, spreading his culinary expertise globally.
As a cookbook author, Ainsley has written several bestsellers, with over two million copies sold worldwide. These include titles like Ainsley’s Barbecue Bible, Ainsley’s Caribbean Kitchen, Ainsley’s Good Mood Food, and Ainsley’s Mediterranean Cookbook, each reflecting his passion for creating delicious, accessible dishes.
Ainsley’s books have been praised for their easy-to-follow recipes, celebrating various cuisines and ingredients. This demonstrates his commitment to making cooking enjoyable for people of all skill levels.
In 2020, in recognition of his significant contributions to the culinary world and television, Ainsley was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
Throughout the years, he has become an ambassador for various charities, using his platform to raise awareness about important causes, particularly those related to nutrition and cooking for health.
Ainsley Harriott’s enduring appeal lies in his culinary expertise and infectious enthusiasm, warmth, and ability to connect with audiences.
His cheerful demeanour and passion for food have made him a staple in British television, and his influence continues to inspire both home cooks and professional chefs alike.
