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Celebrity TV chef Gary Rhodes who fronted 'MasterChef' and 'Hell's Kitchen' dies at 59

Rhodes had earned a whopping five Michelin Stars throughout his career and was known for his love of traditional British cuisine. The legendary chef had also authored more than 18 cookery books

BY KUNAL DEY

UPDATED FEB 13, 2020

Popular celebrity chef Gary Rhodes has died at age 59. The father-of-two died in Dubai with his wife Jennie by his side.

"The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father, and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE," a statement from his family read. "Gary passed away last evening, Tuesday, November 26, 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," the statement added. Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa and Grosvenor House Dubai, where Rhodes most recently worked, also released a statement.

"The team is devastated to hear of the tragic passing of Chef Gary Rhodes OBE," the release read. "Not only has the industry lost a true culinary legend, but 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," the statement added.

Celebrity chefs Michel Roux Jr (L) and Gary Rhodes observe chefs preparing a meal of Brill Cherubin as they compete in the final round to win a 'Roux Scholarship' at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park on April 6, 2009, in London, England (Getty Images)

Meanwhile, television chef Jamie Oliver extended his tribute to Rhodes with a heartfelt post on Instagram. "My heartfelt sympathies to his wife, kids, friends, and family, sending love and thoughts," he said.

"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."

"Very sad to get a message this morning from Dubai informing me of the brilliant Chef and mentor Gary Rhodes passing last night," Simon Hulstone tweeted. "What a shining star for British gastronomy. Rest well, Chef."

Chefs Marguerite Patten (L) and Gary Rhodes inspect the kitchen of former British prime minister Sir Winston Churchill at the opening of the first phase of a 7.5m project to renovate the British Imperial War Museum-owned War Rooms April 8, 2003, in London, England. (Getty Images)

Rhodes became a household name in the early 2000s with his trademark gelled spiked hairstyle. He also fronted blockbuster reality shows like 'MasterChef' and 'Hell's Kitchen', and went on to compete in the BBC's 'Great British Menu' in 2006.

Rhodes was born in south London back in 1960. He later went to catering college in Thanet, where he would meet his future wife Jennie.

Rhodes had earned a whopping five Michelin Stars throughout his career and was known for his love of traditional British cuisine. The legendary chef had also authored more than 18 cookery books.