TV chef Gary Rhodes dies in Dubai at the age of 59 with his wife by his side

27 November 2019, 09:22

TV chef Gary Rhodes has died at the age of 59, his family announced today.

He was best known for shows like MasterChef and Hell's Kitchen and his trademark spiked hairdo.

His family said he died on Tuesday night.

His family said in a statement: "The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE.

Read more: Tributes pour in after death of TV chef Gary Rhodes at the age of 59

"Gary passed away last evening, Tuesday 26th November 2019, at the age of 59, with his beloved wife Jennie by his side. The family would like to thank everyone for their support and ask for privacy during this time."

Jaideep Bhatia, PR director of the Grosvenor House Dubai, said Mr Rhodes was working "until the day he died".

He said: "He arrived in Dubai in 2007 and had two restaurants, Rhodes 2010 at Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa, and Rhodes W1 at the Grosvenor.

"He was working until the day he died. He was working until Tuesday."

Mr Bhatia said he was unable to confirm any further details about Mr Rhodes' death, as everything else had to come "from the family".

Grosvenor House Dubai and Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa, where Rhodes worked, said in a statement: "The team... are devastated to hear of the tragic passing of Chef Gary Rhodes OBE.

"Not only has the industry lost a true culinary legend, we have also lost an inspirational human being and a very dear friend.

"No words can express our sadness at Gary's death or our gratitude for the opportunity to work with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rhodes family."

Jamie Oliver was among leading culinary figures who shared tributes to the chef. He posted on Instagram: "Sadly Chef Gary Rhodes OBE passed away. My heart felt sympathies to his wife , kids, friends and family, sending love and thoughts.

"Gary was a fantastic chef and incredible ambassador for British cooking, he was a massive inspiration to me as a young chef. He reimagined modern British cuisine with elegance and fun. rest in peace Chef."

Gordon Ramsay tweeted: "We lost a fantastic chef today in Gary Rhodes. He was a chef who put British Cuisine on the map. Sending all the love and prayers to your wife and kids. You'll be missed Gx."

Tom Kerridge, formerly Rhodes' sous chef, tweeted: "I'm deeply shocked and hugely saddened to hear the tragic news about Gary Rhodes.

"He is one of the greatest British chefs who almost single handedly put British food on the world stage. Taking simple ingredients, embracing classic dishes & making something world class.

"Many chefs have been through his kitchen, myself included. I consider it to be an honour to have stood alongside him at the pass. My thoughts go out to family and close friends for their huge loss."