TV chef Gary Rhodes’ death was announced earlier today and it appears it was tragically sudden.
In a statement released this morning, Gary’s family said: “The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE.
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“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.”
It has now emerged that Gary was in Dubai working right up until the day of his death.
He was working on a new TV show and allegedly fell ill during a break in filming.
Production companies Rock Oyster and Goldfinch TV told PA in a statement: “It is with terrible sadness that we share the news that Gary Rhodes OBE, TV chef, author and restaurateur has died suddenly at the age of 59.
“Gary was in the middle of filming a wonderful new series with Rock Oyster Media for ITV from his base in Dubai.
“All at Rock Oyster Media and Goldfinch are devastated by this tragic news.
“Gary was taken ill very suddenly at home during a break in filming and died a short time afterwards.”
Fellow chef Jamie Oliver appeared to suggest his friend had suffered a fall, in a now-deleted tweet.
He wrote: “Sadly Chef Gary Rhodes OBE passed away after a tragic fall. My heart felt sympathies to his wife, kids, friends and family, sending love and thought…”
Gary, who also appeared on Hell’s Kitchen, earned five Michelin Stars during his long career.
The hotel he worked at in Dubai, where he also owned the restaurant Rhodes Twenty10, told MailOnline: “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.
Things were great. He was happy and life was good.
“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.”
Speaking to The Sun, a source close to the family said his death had “come as a shock” as he had been “enjoying life” working and living in the United Arab Emirates.
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They added: “Things were great. He was happy and life was good. What’s happened is devastating for his family.”
Gary’s TV career also included a stint on Strictly Come Dancing.
He participated in the sixth series of the show in 2008 and was partnered with pro Karen Hardy, but the pair were the third couple eliminated.
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