The numbers
James Martin’s Saturday Morning continues to captivate audiences, airing at 9:30 am on ITV1. The show is recorded from Martin’s stunning seven-bedroom property in Hampshire, which occupies 1.5 acres of land and features an outdoor kitchen equipped with a premium wood-fired pizza oven and a large central island.
At 53 years old, James Martin has a deep-seated affection for Yorkshire, where he grew up on a 100-acre farm on the Castle Howard estate. His fondness for the region profoundly influences his cooking philosophy, as he once stated, “I’ll get lynched if I don’t end up in Yorkshire. I love Yorkshire.” This connection to his roots is evident in the dishes he prepares and the stories he shares on his show.
Regularly joining Martin is Merlin Griffiths, a 51-year-old bartender known for his engaging segments that offer bartending advice and recipes. Griffiths has faced significant challenges in recent years, having been diagnosed with stage three bowel cancer in 2021. After an arduous 18-month battle with the disease, he received the all-clear in 2023, a moment he describes as life-changing. “My life will never quite be the same, and anyone that has gone through bowel cancer and the horrific treatment that it involves will understand,” he reflected.
Griffiths has been in a loving relationship with Lucille for ten years, and together they have a daughter named Alix. He acknowledges the vital role Lucille played during his treatment, stating, “Honestly I wasn’t driving throughout loads of that treatment. It was down to Lucille to take me into hospital every day.” Their family bond has been a source of strength throughout his ordeal.
James Martin’s outdoor cooking area not only serves as a backdrop for his culinary creations but also symbolizes his commitment to quality food and the importance of understanding where it comes from. He emphasizes the necessity of respecting food producers, remarking, “It’s an amazing lesson in life to learn at that age: to respect the people who produce food, that it’s not just a given – people have to grow it, make it, produce it.” This philosophy resonates deeply with viewers and aspiring chefs alike.
Despite his love for Yorkshire, Martin has faced logistical challenges in relocating back to the region due to the geographical distribution of his various projects. Nevertheless, he has established a routine with his current setup in Hampshire, allowing him to maintain his connection to both his roots and his culinary endeavors.
As James Martin continues to inspire audiences with his culinary skills and heartfelt stories, observers are eager to see how his journey unfolds. With Griffiths’ recovery and return to the show, fans can expect more engaging content that highlights resilience, passion, and the joy of cooking.