TV chef James Martin does warn the audience 'this will be like my Saturday show on steroids' but even I wasn't prepared for the riotous, frenetic two hours that followed. His straight-talking views on air fryers, butter, Joe Wicks and even his jaw-dropping treatment of a Barbie doll left no stone unturned.
From his unusual entrance at Birmingham's Symphony Hall, it was clear this would be an uncensored Martin in a no-holds barred night of entertainment. Not just about cooking and recipes, but comedy, cars, nostalgic family stories and music as he takes several turns on his guitar.
Swearing, calling for bans on air fryers and single cream and throwing in copious amounts of butter to every recipe, the Yorkshireman has a twinkle in his eye as he lets his character shine, with a touch of self mockery.
What became clear is how funny Martin really is. His risque jokes that normally aren't allowed during Saturday prime time family viewing had the audience in stitches. Even Michelin-starred Birmingham chef Glynn Purnell, who was a special guest in the audience, was the butt of many good-natured jokes - and took them well.
This is the This Morning chef's fourth UK tour and first since Martin publicly apologised over a leaked clip of him berating co-workers behind-the-scenes. Although it was over a drain that had become blocked at his home during filming of James Martin’s Saturday Morning, the 50-year-old had opened up about having been diagnosed with cancer on his face at the same time.
Referring to that at the close of this show, there was heartfelt sentiment as he thanked everyone for the support and well-wishes he'd received in such a "difficult year".
It felt genuine and brimming with emotion - some of the main reasons why I think Martin is now one of the most popular British personalities of his generation.
Much of this new tour is sentimental and nostalgic. It opens with a touching unusual tribute to the late, great Keith Floyd (which I don't want to spoil) and spends all the second act reminiscing on food and Martin's experiences during the 1970s and '80s.
There's some wonderful memories about life with his nan, parents and sister, growing up on a Yorkshire pig farm. Fights with his sister between her doll and his Evil Knievel toy have obviously left their mark as he seemed far too keen to hack away at a Barbie doll. It was one of the craziest moments of the show that still haunts me, but makes hilarious sense when you see the final result of his recipe.
When it comes to the recipes, there are nine he cooks live with assistance from his trusty side-kick Sam in what is most similar to his Saturday morning ITV programme and adventures in Spain and France. They include fantastic adaptations of his memories of everything from KFC to Berni Inn.
There's also a 'Hassleback Sarnie' that is literally a heart attack on a plate that takes his love of butter to a whole new level. It has to be seen to be believed.
Smelling his butter-soaked food waft across Symphony Hall was tantalising yet torture as he smirked 'enjoy your kebab on the way home'. Martin knows everyone would much rather get a taste of his homely creations instead, however high the calorie content.
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Breaking up the cooking are anecdotes and music from Martin plus plenty of audience participation that helps keep the atmosphere so lively.
Ahead of the event, an excited Martin had posted a picture of inside Birmingham's Symphony Hall declaring 'love this place, what a room!' Known for its unrivalled acoustics, Martin's elation became clear when he grabbed his guitar with a fellow musician to perform tracks by the Rolling Stones and Journey for a singalong.
If you want to know what the real James Martin is like, then this is the show for you. It's the popular chef in all his uncensored cheekiness, brimming with fun and naughtiness. Licking his fingers with a devilish look in his eye, Martin has the audience eating out of the palm of his hand during a joyous, refreshing night of entertainment.
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James Martin Live continues on its UK tour to venues including Oxford New Theatre tonight(October 24), Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff on October 29, Nottingham Royal Concert Hall on November 1, Bridgewater Hall Manchester on November 10 and London Palladium on November 12. For tickets and information, visit the Live Nation website here.
