FOX Keeps Gordon Ramsay in the Family

By Daniel Fienberg, Zap2It.com | September 15, 2008

Gordon Ramsay

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More 'Hell's Kitchen' and 'Kitchen Nightmares' on the way

FOX has reached a new agreement with Chef Gordon Ramsay, keeping the blustery Brit a part of FOX's programming family for years to come.

The network announced Monday (Sept. 15) that Ramsay's new pact will include two more seasons of "Hell's Kitchen," at least one additional season of "Kitchen Nightmares," a yet-to-be-determined special, plus the potential of additional series projects.

"Gordon has done an amazing job of creating exciting franchises for FOX," say Mike Darnell, FOX's alternative programming guru. "From the first time I met him, it was clear that he would be a big star in America. He has become one of the 'faces of FOX,' and we're thrilled that he will be on our network for years to come."

"Hell's Kitchen" was a FOX summer staple for its first three seasons before FOX opted to launch the latest run last April, yielding the franchise's highest ratings, particularly among adults 18-49, where it ranked as the summer's top program.

The fifth season of "Hell's Kitchen" -- more swearing, more sweating and more poorly cooked risotto -- is expected to premiere on FOX at midseason.

"Kitchen Nightmares," which FOX boasts "explores the softer side of Ramsay," recently launched its second season and is airing on Thursday nights.