ITV announce major new reality show The Heat with Olivia Attwood confirmed as host

Olivia Attwood is set to sizzle on screens in a 'spicy' new reality show for ITV, expressing her excitement by saying it's an "honour".

ITV has unveiled an enticing new reality series, The Heat, which will see a group of aspiring young chefs tackle the most intense job of their careers.

The programme will be hosted by Olivia, with 10 chefs heading to Barcelona to work under the tutelage of multi-Michelin Starred chef Jean-Christophe Novelli at his exclusive summer eatery in the swanky Port Vell Marina, as he searches for the next culinary sensation.

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But there's a twist – the drama doesn't end when the kitchen closes. The cameras will continue to roll, capturing all the behind-the-scenes action.

ITV promises viewers a glimpse into the contestants' post-shift dates and staff nights out, promising a mix of professional challenges and personal drama that will see tempers flare both in and out of the kitchen, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Olivia shared her enthusiasm about her presenting gig, stating, "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!".

Chef Jean-Christophe is equally excited, commenting, "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!".

As she made her second appearance on This Morning, Olivia was announced as part of the summer presenter line-up, stepping in while Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard are away.

Standing with Dermot O'Leary, Olivia quipped: "Couldn't stay away! Thank you guys, not as much commotion as the first show" prompting Dermot to chime in with: "It's only her second show, how is that supposed to motivate her?" in reference to the studio's reaction.

The ex-Love Island contestant then remarked: "I didn't get sacked, they wanted me back. The kitten heels are back!".

After facing undue criticism for her initial appearance on This Morning, Olivia stated: "Those who know me understand the hard work I've put in to get where I am today."

She expressed gratitude towards Love Island for kickstarting her career but also conveyed her eagerness to demonstrate her capabilities beyond the reality show, saying: "I'm forever grateful to Love Island for being the springboard to my career, but I'm excited to show there's so much more to me beyond the villa."

Olivia concluded by acknowledging her journey, "It's been a lot of hard work, but I've always stayed focused on my goals and believed in myself and I'm very thankful for ITV in believing me."

The Heat is coming to ITV2 and ITVX in 2026