British celebrity chef Gary Rhodes dies suddenly at 59

He led a new wave of celebrity British chefs in the 1990s, cooking on almost every continent

LONDON: British chef and TV presenter Gary Rhodes has died at the age of 59, prompting tributes from Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver and Prue Leith to the "rock star of cooking".

Known for his spiky brown hair and love of British cuisine, Rhodes was taken ill suddenly during a break in filming for a new series in Dubai, his family said in a statement.

Rhodes led a new wave of celebrity British chefs in the 1990s, cooking on almost every continent for stars including the late Princess Diana, Tom Hanks and Manchester United soccer club.

1/2 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

— Tom Kerridge (@ChefTomKerridge) November 27, 2019

He appeared on Master Chef, Hell's Kitchen and other cookery shows, often reimagining British classic meals.

"The Rhodes family is deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes," they said.

I have not only lost a brother but a best friend too. Gary you will always be by my side, in my thoughts but most of all in my heart. The times I have spent with you have been some of the most special of my life. Rest in Peace beloved man - love you always pic.twitter.com/YEq3ih4QeF

— Christopher (@Kitrhodes) November 27, 2019

"Gary passed away last evening ... at the age of 59, with his beloved wife Jennie by his side." Gordon Ramsay, known for his brash TV persona, led the tributes, calling Rhodes a fantastic chef who put British cuisine on the map.

Jamie Oliver, the chef and healthy food campaigner, described Rhodes as an "incredible ambassador for British cooking".

Prue Leith, one of Britain's best known chefs, said: "Gary was the first rock star of cooking, making it cool for boys to cook. Spiky haircut, tight trousers, full of energy. And a great chef."