Customer Reviews

"I thought this was well done and thoughtfully presented. I wish the interviews were more participatory. I really wanted the "former priest" who was still, inexplicably, wearing a collar, to be asked how rape could be considered a "misunderstanding" to quote him. And perhaps the chef who acted like Jeff's reputation was funny, when young men applied for jobs, could explain her reaction. But it really was well done and so incredibly sad on so many fronts"

"A very thoroughly researched, fair, and balanced presentation of an interesting life. Because of the way his public life came to an end, he now lies far under the cultural sod. But all of the current celebrity chefs owe their existence in part to his quite joyous presentation of the wonders of cooking."

"Great documentary! I really enjoyed watching this!"

"Although sad and disturbing, this was a great series. Being from the Chicagoland area I had been a Jeff Smith fan from the beginning. I remember hearing some rumors over the years but had no idea of the scope of things. The interviews were very concise and I appreciate how forthcoming everyone was. If anyone is looking to find out the whole story, this series won’t disappoint."

"So well done. I appreciate the years of interviews, expense and honesty that has contributed to the making of a truly captivating series. My mother watch his program faithfully, sometimes quoting him and bought cookbooks ( one of which I still have). I watched at times. Busy getting married and having children towards the end of his downfall. I’m so glad I purchased this mini series/documentary, and my 30 year old daughter and I looked forward to watching at the end of the day and was disappointed when it was finished. So many difficult and conflicting emotions surrounding Jeff Smith and the lifestyle he lived, in comparison to the lifestyle you saw."

"This was so eye-opening. I think it could be whittled down a bit, but SUPER informative. I remember watching him as a child living in Chicago. Watching these people wrestle with who they knew him to be (good or bad) vs his talent and ability to reach masses was articulated so well. Bravo!"

"There was a lot more information in this series than the media gave out when this story first came out. It was a little too long for my taste but filled with a ton of information. I would definitely recommend this docuseries!"

"Very thorough documentary. Interviewed people who thought he was innocent as well as guilty. Maybe a movie should be done about his life. Sad he couldn't be open about his sexuality. He clearly was a pedophile though."

"Well done. Tho missing some essential points. Did no one think to ask if he was similarly treated as a boy? His confusing mixture with religion was sad. His misinterpretation of 'forgiveness' is horrible and he's surely suffering for it now. I thought it was crass to show the images of Jesus on the cross as if Jesus had anything to do with his actions, other than his sheer misinterpretation. The minister who defended and who could find no measured response to the accusations was shameful. This is how child abuse keeps happening in the Church. Did NO ONE even quote Jesus' own statement: And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. ¶ Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offense cometh! Matt 18:5-7"

"Exceptionally well-made documentary. I remember when rumors of a scandal began, but I had never heard the truth. Heartbreaking."

"Very well done. It was so interesting to hear the interviews with different people who were affected in completely different ways by the same person. Yes, it was long, some reviews felt it was too long. I think it was important to present all these stories. It would be too easy to skew the narrative one way or the other. I feel like this was done as objectively as possible. The man did terrible things. Victims of sexual abuse are changed for life, and I am glad these men got to tell their stories. It was difficult and uncomfortable sometimes, as I expected it to be. I hope his victims have found some relief and peace in telling their stories. As far as the FG program goes, Smith sparked interest and opened minds to different foods and the joy in preparing food for those we love. As the series mentions, he led the way to what became a huge industry of food television. I know I wouldn’t be the cook I am without that valuable resource. Peace is elusive. May we all keep seeking it."

"This documentary tells the complete story. Done tastefully and is a compelling retelling. Covers a long time period in interesting manner. I think it is just interesting enough to appeal to younger demo who did not live through it."