TV chef Gary Rhodes, known for his appearances on MasterChef and Hell's Kitchen, has died at the age of 59 after suddenly taking ill.
The well-known restaurateur died unexpectedly with his wife by his bedside in Dubai, according to reports.
In a statement, the family of Gary Rhodes said: "The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE.
"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."
A statement from the hotel where he worked said: "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."
The father-of-two, famous for his gelled spiky hair, was a household name in the early 2000s, and fronted shows such as Masterchef and Hells Kitchen. In 2006, he competed in the BBC's Great British Menu.
Rhodes earned a record five Michelin Stars throughout his career. He was the author of more than 18 cookery books.
In 2008, he appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, but was the third celebrity to be voted off. He moved to Dubai in 2011.
Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver paid tribute to Rhodes on Instagram, saying he was "a fantastic chef" and "a massive inspiration to me as a young chef".
"Sadly Chef Gary Rhodes OBE passed away. My heart felt sympathies to his wife , kids, friends and family, sending love and thoughts," he posted online.
He added: "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."
Candice Brown, winner of the seventh series of The Great British Bake Off, recalled how she took inspiration from Rhodes' baking.
"So so sad to hear about Gary Rhodes. His banana and syrup loaf was the first thing I baked all on my own. The pages are stuck together with syrup 💔 So much love to his family #garyrhodes".
So so sad to hear about Gary Rhodes. His banana and syrup loaf was the first thing I baked all on my own. The pages are stuck together with syrup 💔 So much love to his family #garyrhodes
— Candice Brown (@CandiceBrown) November 27, 2019
Spandau Ballet's Steve Norman said he was "shocked and sad to hear of this gent's passing".
Shocked and sad to hear of this gent's passing. He was so sweet, polite and fun to be with. He showed wannabe chefs how to cook and wannabe celebrities how to behave #GaryRhodes pic.twitter.com/zVcayBHsjv
— Steve Norman (@SteveNormanReal) November 27, 2019
Chef and television presenter, James Martin, said Rhodes was "hugely influential" in his life.
Hugely influential in my life and the life of the British food scene. Gent and genius...RIP Gary, I can't believe you’re gone https://t.co/8g8M93uJrB pic.twitter.com/tAcLWONYjH
— James Martin (@jamesmartinchef) November 27, 2019
Can't Cook, Won't Cook and Ready Steady Cook star, Ainsley Harriott, praised Rhodes for being "a true culinary icon".
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
Chef Brian Turner, who worked with Rhodes early in his career, called him "one of England's great chefs".
Such sad news of the passing away of one of England's great chefs, Gary Rhodes. A man I was privileged to know from his very early days, watching his success & noting the number of young people he inspired in our wonderful industry. A true friend. RIP chef. ♥️ to Jennie & boys x
— Brian Turner (@BrianTurnerChef) November 27, 2019
Gordon Ramsay said Rhodes was "a fantastic chef" who "put British Cuisine on the map".
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
Restaurateur, Simon Rimmer, best known for his on-screen partnership with Tim Lovejoy, said Rhodes was a "lovely man" who gave "great advice".
oh my goodness! just heard the tragic news that Gary Rhodes has died. Always a lovely man who gave me great advice when I first started out. Love and thoughts to Jennie and the boys
— simonrimmer (@simonrim) November 27, 2019
Masterchef judge Monica Galetti said she was "so honoured to have known" Rhodes.
Rest in Love Chef. So honoured to have known you and share your love of Magaritas, sending love to Jennie and the boys xx pic.twitter.com/RaZBEapHAR
— Monica GALETTI (@MGaletti01) November 27, 2019
Actor and writer, Kadiff Kirwan, told a heartwarming story about Kirwan's kindness and generosity.
So sad to hear about the death of Gary Rhodes. In 2008 on my gap year I worked at his restaurant in Marble Arch to save for drama school. Gary was always so lovely. When I left to go to drama school he gave me one is his signed cookbooks, I opened it and there was £200 inside.
— Kadiff Kirwan (@kadiffkirwan) November 27, 2019
