Love Island legend confirmed to present ITV's next "reality obsession" with spicy chef show

Novelli is opening an exclusive summer restaurant at the glamorous Port Vell Marina and is on a mission to find the next rising star.

Jean-Christophe Novelli said: "I couldn’t be more thrilled to join this new exciting show and help spotlight the next generation of culinary talent.

"Known for my drive and intensity in the kitchen, I’ll be using my passion and unique teaching style to push these young chefs to dig deep, stay sharp, and prove they have what it takes to grow, evolve, and make their mark.

"I'll mentor them to use all five senses together and put it all on the plate, the right way. It’s going to be a wild ride, and I know we’ll discover some true culinary stars along the way. I’m ready. Let’s do this. Allez, Allez – bon appétit!"

But this isn't just any old cooking competition, as when the kitchen service is over, the cameras keep rolling and will follow the contributors as they live, work and compete with one another.

As teased by ITV, viewers can expect post-shift dates, staff nights out and more – as the cooks blend both their professional and personal lives, which is a recipe for trouble.

The series is hosted by Attwood, who will be keeping a close eye on the chefs, offering insight, gossip and the occasional reality check for those who need it.

Attwood said of The Heat: "It is such an honour to host this brand-new format for ITV2 and ITVX, being at the helm of something this fresh and exciting is a total pinch-me moment!"

Throughout the series, the chefs will realise that no one is safe as they battle it out in a bid to climb the kitchen ranks.

Prepare yourselves for "promotions, demotions, power plays, sackings and shock decisions", as The Heat will keep viewers on the very edge of their seats.

Paul Mortimer, director of reality commissioning and acquisitions at ITV, said: "The Heat is the perfect fusion of a high-stakes cooking show with real-life drama, and with the fantastic Olivia at the forefront alongside the renowned Jean-Christophe calling the shots in the kitchen, it’s shaping up to be a new reality obsession for our younger viewers on ITV2 and ITVX."

David Clews, chief creative officer for Twofour, added: "We can’t wait to bring The Heat to ITV2 and ITVX, a reality-cooking competition crossover, sure to dish out delicious drama. With the incredible Olivia Atwood hosting and the legendary Jean-Christophe Novelli in charge, we couldn’t be more thrilled. They really are a fabulous combination."

The Heat is coming to ITV2 and ITVX in 2026.

Check out more of our Entertainment coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.