TV chef Gary Rhodes has died, aged 59

27 November 2019, 09:22 | Updated: 27 November 2019, 11:21

Celebrity chef Gary Rhodes has died at the age of 59, his family have confirmed.

The TV cook was best known for hosting programmes including MasterChef, Hell’s Kitchen and MasterChef USA.

His family confirmed that he passed away on Tuesday evening (November 26) while in Dubai.

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

"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."

Rhodes owned four restaurants, including two in Dubai, and also had his own line of cooking products and bread mixes.

Born in South London, he opened his first restaurant in 1997 named City Rhodes.

A statement from the hotel where he worked in Dubai said in tribute: "The team at Grosvenor House Dubai and Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort and Spa 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."

He is survived by his wife Jennie, and their two children.