British celebrity chef Gary Rhodes has passed away at age 59. According to his family, the London-born chef died in Dubai where he ran two restaurants.
His wife Jennie was with him at his bedside, the Guardian reported. And, according to reports, the 'MasterChef UK' host had been working up until the day he died.
At the time of his passing, his family released the following statement: "The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE.
"Gary passed away last evening 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."
With a career spanning 30 years, Rhodes was famed for fronting 'MasterChef', 'MasterChef USA', 'Hell's Kitchen' and 'Rhodes Around Britain'.
Twitter users shared their condolences with the family as soon as the news broke:
Very sad to get a message this morning from Dubai informing me of the brilliant Chef and mentor Gary Rhodes passing last night. What a shining star for British gastronomy. Rest well Chef
— Simon Hulstone (@Hulstone) November 27, 2019
Sad to hear about Gary Rhodes passing. He was one of the old school tv chefs of the 90’s with a host of restaurants world wide. Also made me want to gel my hair up from the age of about 6 ☺️✌🏻 pic.twitter.com/maOISdvr5c
— Andrew Aitchison (@ThatGuyAitcho) November 27, 2019
We are all very sad to hear of the passing of Gary Rhodes. He was an inspirational chef and British gastronomy owes him a huge debt. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.
— The MICHELIN Guide (@MichelinGuideUK) November 27, 2019
Fellow British chefs Ainsley Harriot and Gordon Ramsay also paid tribute.
So sad to hear the news about Gary Rhodes. A true culinary icon and a lovely man. Sending my love and thoughts to his wife Jennie and their boys. RIP, my friend. xx
— Ainsley Harriott (@AinsleyFoods) November 27, 2019
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 pic.twitter.com/RRWlWhjup8
— Gordon Ramsay (@GordonRamsay) November 27, 2019