He doesn't act like this because he thinks he is better. I have watched his newest show all the way to Hell's Kitchen Season 14. He does it TO MAKE THEM BETTER! If he was soft, it wouldn't be the same. No one would respect him either. Just like he says "for all those beautiful millennials and snowflakes out there, trust me, the more you get pushed - the tougher your skin, The thicker your skin - the higher you go" He never once gave the impression that he thinks he is better.. If he did, he would have no respect for the other Michelin Star Chef's out there. He just knows what it takes to be GREAT and that is what he is teaching them.