So, you wake up one day and there are a few cameras in your house. Your four year old has a mic on and your wife is spending a little more time getting ready in the bathroom. Your nanny is wearing make up today and bringing breakfast over this morning? And you are wearing one of your own t-hirts that you designed... And then it hits you about 30 minutes into filming, there is no challenge for the day a la Top Chef. The challenge IS the day. You quickly run out of, somewhat calculated, self-promotional things to say. You realize you aren't an actor. Or a Real Housewife. Or even, a Top Chef. You are just you, the good, the bad and maybe the really bad. Totally exposed. . .
That first night, after the cameras left from filming pillow talk, yes pillow talk, I decided that we had to do one thing that was imperative. Be real, talk openly and honestly, and just let it all go. It's the only way to do it. It's what you, the viewer, deserve. And it's what we all willingly signed up for, for the most part, to do. And it was hard.
I'm writing this without knowing or seeing any future episodes. But here is what I can tell you. It's real life. I used the interviews as a sort of therapy. In fact, my wife and I went into it with an agreement that neither of us would get mad about anything said in interviews. So, it was a safe place. I discussed throughout the "sessions", as I did tonight, some real struggles I have. For example, how difficult it can be to manage so many professional projects, as well as my most important job, being a husband and dad. I could have bypassed those issues, instead, waxing about the most amazing parts of my beautiful life, which I do indeed have. But the struggles, I believe, are common for any professional, in any industry, and for any family. And I wanted to express them.
I never understand a woman who complains about a husband trying to make a better life for her and their children. What we saw was a snippet of her complaining; I would guess that the extra pressure she is putting on you is exasperating. Don't do anything out of guilt or let anyone else not let you fulfill your dream because you will never be happy. Life is a crapsshoot! Live it the way you need to!
Richard, 2 years ago we moved from the US to Zürich for my husbands career. Prior to that I also had a career. But now my career is taking care of my family. It's not easy. My hubby gets feedback everyday on what a great job he's doing, in Ireland. See him maybe 48 hrs a week. And my two teen daughters, yeah, they're going to say hank you, you're doing a great job...not. You have to make sure your wife knows that your life and career is a partnership. That what she does matters just as much as what you do. If she is taking care of the kids and home, that is contributing to the success of your career. That you have to be able to say no to some things, because family comes first. I'm struggling right now with my worth, my identity. It appears she is too. But on your side, Jessica, if you two made these decisions together, suck it up and join the team. I love my international lifestyle, I assume you like yours. You also s have a responsibility of figuring out what you want, how to get it, while still putting the children first. Listen to each other, fight fair and love your kids more then anything! Life is short. You two are amazing and I wish you the best of luck! Jen Johnson
Richard, My father was in the restaurant business, and I don't think people realize what a really tough business it is. Of course you look tired. I would hope that your wife would be just a little more understanding about the sacrifices and struggles it takes at the beginning to open a restaurant. The rewards of a successful establishment would be really great for you and your family.
well, actually Richard you ARE a Top Chef. You are also a Top person -- which is even more important. You are serious, smart, generous, talented. Its good to see you back on Bravo. Enjoy your success.
Richard, it's good to see you again, but I wish I'd seen you looking more rested. You looked like you'd been through the ringer, and no wonder. You have so many irons in the fire -- maybe too many? I belong to a large message board, and people on there are concerned about your marriage. Try to remember that your wife and your children have to come first because all of the restaurants, fame and money won't ever replace them. I remember seeing your wife on Top Chef, I think. She's a cutie and seemed to be very supportive of you.
Another thing that people are wondering about is why you continue to talk about "choking" in your first Top Chef competition. It sounds like you're saying that Stephanie wouldn't have won if you hadn't choked. For all you know, she might have won anyway, but the bottom line is that she DID win! Stop using that as an excuse because it sounds so self-serving and egotistical. Accept the fact that Stephanie won!!! It seems like everyone has forgotten about that ending, but you keep bringing it up. Forgive yourself, and MOVE ON! You sound so whiny, and it's a TERRIBLE put-down of Stephanie, who is accomplished in her own right!
You have had so many accomplishments and so much recognition since Top Chef. Your respect among chefs seems to be flourishing. I don't think there's any doubt in anyone's
mind that you'll accomplish great things -- and have already. I'm one of your biggest fans, so all of your success makes me happy for you. Keep your perspective, and don't be too hard on yourself or your family. Good things come to those who wait.
I'm looking forward to seeing more of you as the show continues. Best of luck to you.
Good show,Richard. Good luck with your new restaurant! I do feel it is time for you to give up the comments on how you should have won your season of Top Chef. It would be nice if you would give Stephanie the props she deserves for her win. Good luck.
I just love you!! You are so true about the passion you have for cooking,and it shows. You were fantastic on ALL STARS. My husband and i will watch you every Wednesday!
Take care
I have thoroughtly enjoyed the 4 of you on the various Top Chef seasons, and I love the series. That said, this particular TC series did not hold my attention for even an entire episode. Probably will not be back again.
Wow I realized about an hour ago that I have watched you all day..... It is good to see what you guys are all up to. I am glad that you and your lovely family are all doing good and bad but I think you have it under control. Good luck to you and the rest of the cast on this new show.





does your wife work?
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