I don't own any of his books, probably won't subscribe to his magazine or purchase any of his products (mostly because they're too expensive to import) and highly doubt I'd go see him in person but I do like to watch Jamie Oliver videos on the web. Read on for a few favorites.
I'll be honest here: I just discovered Jamie Oliver a few months ago, thanks to a new computer and my generous neighbor's free superspeedy wireless connection. I'm a bit late to the party, I know, but I just discovered a site that has all of his first series, The Naked Chef, and I'm thoroughly addicted. Jamie Oliver at 23, chock full of boyish charm and energy and angel/devil cheeky fun! But none of it would be worth my time if the lad couldn't cook. And as most of the world knows and I'm only just discovering, he really can cook. I just may buy one or two of his books after all...
I've also started watching his latest offering, Ministry of Food series, on his website. Jamie Oliver is all grown up now, with a wife and kids and a whole industry behind his name. The tone and style of the series are more subdued and he's pitching towards people who don't usually cook, but he's as encouraging and inspiring as ever. And his recipe for pasta with peas and bacon looks really great...er, dead pukka!Bonus Clip:
Jamie and Mark Bittman
How To Cook Fluffy, Tasty Quinoa
Perfect Summer Cocktail Recipe: Honey Bourbon Lemonade
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
Elizabeth Apron fro...
100 DIY Ideas for the 3-Day Weekend
Danielle's Charming, Classic Walk-Up
Even though his recipes are great and there is no doubt he can cook, he is too sloppy for my taste.
One particular episode in FoodTV showed him with black fingernails cooking dinner, it really grossed me out.
It is one thing to be relaxed and give this aura of zen-confidence when you cook, but both him and Nigella Lawson take this concept one step too far, in my humble opinion. Love their recipes, have their books, but will keep my own style of cooking :-)
What's with all the disclaimers at the top of your post!? If you like him, fine, but why tell us all the things you wouldn't do involving Jamie Oliver?
Charlotte:
I see your point. I was trying to illustrate, perhaps not so well, that I didn't come to Jamie Oliver through the usual ways (books and products.) In other words, I thought I wasn't convinced by the whole 'Jamie Oliver machine' but have found myself drawn in by the videos, much to my surprise. Thanks for helping me clarify this!
Dana V