Manu Feildel: Wife, Feud, Home, Net Worth & Biography

Manu Feildel is known to millions as the animated French judge on My Kitchen Rules, but the real story behind the apron involves a simmering rivalry turned close friendship, a stable family life, and a career that started far from Australian TV. Take the moment fellow chef Colin Fassnidge publicly critiqued a dish Feildel cooked at Sydney’s Bilson’s—a single plate that sparked a years-long dynamic now described as brotherly.

Born: 26 March 1974 ·
Nationality: French-Australian ·
Known for: My Kitchen Rules judge, chef, restaurateur ·
Spouse: Clarissa Weerasena ·
Cancer Research Ambassador: Yes

7 facts from verified sources, one pattern: Manu Feildel’s public life as a TV personality is backed by a solid culinary foundation and a stable personal life that counters the dramatic on-screen persona.

Are Manu and Clarissa still together?

Yes, as of the most recent reports, Manu Feildel and Clarissa Weerasena are still together. The couple married in 2018 after meeting in 2011 (Mamamia (Australian women’s media)). They have two children and have been spotted living a quiet family life in Sydney’s Maroubra. In early 2024, the pair were photographed gardening together outside their home (Daily Mail (UK tabloid)), a sign that their relationship remains strong. Clarissa works as a jewellery designer (Mamamia (Australian women’s media)).

Who is Manu Feildel’s wife?

• Clarissa Weerasena, a jewellery designer, married Feildel in 2018 (Mamamia (Australian women’s media)).
• The couple met in 2011, years after Feildel’s previous 12-year relationship ended in 2009 (Mamamia (Australian women’s media)).

Do Manu and Clarissa have children?

Yes, the couple has two children. Their exact names and ages are not widely publicized, but Feildel has mentioned his family in interviews.

The pattern: a private life that remains consistently resilient despite public scrutiny.

Are Manu and Colin friends in real life?

The short answer is yes—now. Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge have what they describe as a “friendly rivalry” that began when Fassnidge publicly criticized a dish Feildel cooked at Bilson’s, a fine-dining spot in Sydney (Now To Love (entertainment outlet)). Fassnidge accused Feildel of being “more TV star than chef” during early interactions on My Kitchen Rules.

“We are now like two brothers and spend six to eight months a year together.” — Manu Feildel on his relationship with Colin Fassnidge (Now To Love (entertainment outlet))

“He’s more TV star than chef.” — Colin Fassnidge on Manu Feildel during early MKR days (Now To Love (entertainment outlet))

However, Feildel later said they are now “like two brothers” and spend six to eight months a year together. They even co-host the travel-cooking series Off the Grid (Now To Love (entertainment outlet)).

What is the real story behind Manu Feildel and Colin Fassnidge’s feud?

• The feud was sparked by a critique over a dish at Bilson’s (Now To Love (entertainment outlet)).
• Fassnidge labeled Feildel “more TV star than chef” in those early days (Now To Love (entertainment outlet)).
• They have since evolved into close collaborators and friends.

Does Colin Fassnidge have a partner?

Colin Fassnidge is in a relationship with his partner Emma, though he keeps his private life largely out of the spotlight.

The pattern: a rivalry once public now serves as a foundation for collaboration.

Where does Manu Feildel live now?

Manu Feildel and his family live in Maroubra, a beachside suburb of Sydney. In 2023, he bought a $1.9 million home in the area (Daily Mail (UK tabloid)). He previously lived in other parts of Sydney.

What is Manu Feildel’s home in Maroubra like?

Photos from early 2024 show Feildel and his wife gardening on the property, suggesting a comfortable, family-oriented home with outdoor space (Daily Mail (UK tabloid)).

What is Manu Feildel’s net worth?

Net worth estimates vary and are not independently verified. The figure often cited—$5 million—remains unconfirmed. His income sources include TV judging fees, restaurant ownership, and a cookware brand.

Is Manu Feildel a trained chef?

Yes, Manu Feildel is a professionally trained chef. He trained in England and worked at top restaurants including Le Gavroche under Michel Roux Jr. (Now To Love (entertainment outlet)). He moved to Australia in the 2000s and opened several restaurants before joining My Kitchen Rules in 2009.

What is Manu Feildel’s professional background?

• Trained in England under Michel Roux Jr. at Le Gavroche (Now To Love (entertainment outlet)).
• Worked at multiple restaurants before moving to Australia.
• Became a judge on My Kitchen Rules in 2009 and has co-hosted Off the Grid.

How did Manu Feildel start his culinary career?

• He began his career in France before moving to England for formal training.
• He gained experience in Michelin-starred kitchens, which shaped his French culinary philosophy (Facebook (Feildel’s official page, chef community)).

The pattern: formal training under Michel Roux Jr. establishes credibility beyond TV.

Do Pete and Manu get along?

Yes, Manu Feildel and Pete Evans have a respectful professional relationship. They co-judged My Kitchen Rules for many years and have publicly expressed mutual respect.

The pattern: off-screen camaraderie contradicts the manufactured drama.

Related coverage: Off the Grid with Colin and Manu fördjupar bilden av Colin and Manu Off the Grid: Watch Guide & Friendship Explained.

Frequently asked questions

For fans of Manu Feildel, the picture that emerges is a chef who has successfully navigated the line between TV personality and serious cook. The choice for viewers is clear: enjoy the on-screen drama, but know that the real Manu is grounded by a stable marriage, a close friendship with his supposed rival, and a culinary résumé that needs no embellishment.

Looking for more? Try our Zucchini Fritters recipe or learn How to cook pork spare ribs.