Jamie Oliver’s Unexpected Collaboration with CMAT and the Return of Jamie’s Italian
It’s been 27 years since Jamie Oliver first appeared on TV as The Naked Chef, achieving cultural prominence partly due to his rock ‘n’ roll credentials. His band, Scarlet Division, provided the show’s theme tune, and his affinity for Toploader contributed to their cover of “Dancing in the Moonlight” becoming a major hit. While music has since taken a backseat in Oliver’s global brand, it unexpectedly resurfaced in 2025, inspiring a standout track from Irish pop star CMAT.
CMAT’s “The Jamie Oliver Petrol Station”
CMAT’s third album, Euro-Country, features the song “The Jamie Oliver Petrol Station,” described as an “ecstatic indie epic.” The lyrics humorously recount the singer’s experience at a Shell garage selling Oliver’s line of salads and sandwiches, and her strong reaction to seeing the chef’s face. Critic Dorian Lynskey praised the song as a “tragicomedy of misdirected anger.”
Oliver’s Reaction and Collaboration
Initially, Oliver was puzzled by the song, wondering “What have I done wrong?” However, his daughters and their friends enjoyed the track, and he received a surge of messages about it. In February, Oliver followed CMAT on Instagram, prompting her to ask if he’d be interested in filming a music video together. Just two days later, they shot the video at the newly reopened Leicester Square location of Jamie’s Italian.
The Revived Jamie’s Italian
The Jamie’s Italian chain, which had previously collapsed in 2019, is making a comeback on British high streets. The music video shoot took place during the staff training week for the new restaurant, amidst ongoing renovations and furniture deliveries. Oliver described the shoot as chaotic but enjoyable, noting his team’s enthusiasm despite the circumstances.
The Music Video and Oliver’s Musical Roots
The music video, debuted at CMAT’s Alexandra Palace show, intercuts between CMAT and her band performing in a 1960s television-style studio and Oliver navigating a stressful day in the restaurant kitchen. A key moment features Oliver drumming, showcasing his skills from his days with Scarlet Division. CMAT confirmed he “still got it” behind the kit.
Oliver expressed his respect for the creative arts and music, emphasizing the challenges faced by artists today. He also shared his current musical tastes, including Portuguese singer-songwriter Maro, Loyle Carner, Tom Misch, MJ Cole, and a renewed appreciation for Britpop.
Looking Ahead
CMAT playfully suggested a potential appearance in Oliver’s next festive special, hinting at a continued collaboration. Oliver acknowledged his initial confusion about the song but now understands CMAT’s perspective, recognizing that “we all live in a world where we create assumptions without understanding the whole picture.” He hopes CMAT finds him “less annoying now.”