The numbers
James Martin’s Saturday Morning, a culinary show that airs at 9:30 am on ITV1, has become a staple for food enthusiasts across the UK. The show is recorded from Martin’s expansive 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, Martin has built a career that not only showcases his culinary skills but also reflects his deep affection for his roots in Yorkshire, which he fondly refers to as “God’s County.”
Growing up on a 100-acre farm on the Castle Howard estate in Yorkshire, Martin’s upbringing has significantly shaped his cooking philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of respecting food producers, stating, “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 throughout his show, where he often shares recipes and cooking techniques that highlight local ingredients.
Merlin Griffiths, who regularly appears on Saturday Morning, adds another layer to the show’s narrative. At 51, Griffiths has faced significant personal challenges, including an 18-month battle with stage three bowel cancer. Diagnosed in 2021, he received the all-clear in 2023, a journey he openly discusses with viewers. Reflecting on his experience, Griffiths remarked, “Honestly I wasn’t driving throughout loads of that treatment. It was down to Lucille to take me into hospital every day.” His resilience and the support of his long-term partner, Lucille, who he has been with for ten years, have become an integral part of his story.
Griffiths’s journey through cancer has not only impacted his life but has also influenced his contributions to the show. He frequently offers bartending advice and recipes, showcasing his passion for mixology alongside Martin’s culinary expertise. This dynamic duo has created a unique viewing experience that combines cooking with personal storytelling, making Saturday Morning more than just a cooking show.
Despite his successful career, Martin has expressed logistical challenges in relocating back to Yorkshire due to the geographical distribution of his projects. He has established a routine with his current setup in Hampshire, but his longing for Yorkshire remains palpable. As he puts it, “I’ll get lynched if I don’t end up in Yorkshire. I love Yorkshire.” This connection to his homeland continues to influence his culinary style and the themes presented on his show.
As viewers tune in each week, they can expect not only delicious recipes but also heartfelt stories that reflect the personal journeys of both Martin and Griffiths. Their shared experiences resonate with audiences, creating a sense of community around the show. With Griffiths now cancer-free, fans are eager to see how his experiences will shape future episodes and what new culinary adventures await.
In a world where food often serves as a bridge between cultures and experiences, James Martin’s Saturday Morning stands out as a testament to the power of storytelling through cooking. As the show continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how Martin and Griffiths will further intertwine their personal narratives with culinary delights, keeping viewers engaged and inspired.