Gary Rhodes, Famous for 'Hell's Kitchen' and 'Masterchef', Suddenly Passes Away at 59

Celebrity Chef Gary Rhodes unexpectedly passes away while filming a new show in Dubai. His fellow celebrity chefs send tribute messages in his honor.

Celebrity chef and television host for MasterChef and Hell’s Kitchen, Gary Rhodes dies suddenly after taking ill in Dubai. In a statement from his family, it says:

"The Rhodes family are deeply saddened to announce the passing of beloved husband, father and brother, Gary Rhodes OBE. Gary passed away last evening at the age of 59, with his beloved wife, Jennie, by his side."

At the time of death, Rhodes had taken a break after he fell ill while filming a new series with Rock Oyster Media for ITV in Dubai. In part of a heartfelt message, fellow Chef Jamie Oliver says:

"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 ?."

Rhodes grew up in Kent and embarked on his career as chef at Thanet Technical College. Early in his career, he worked as the head chef at the Castle Hotel in Taunton, where he would be awarded the Michelin star at 26-years-old.

In 2006 he was awarded an OBE. His success would eventually lead him to open several local and international restaurants, cookbooks, cookware, and bread mixes.

He worked as a presenter on "MasterChef," "MasterChef USA." After branching out, he established his own series, "Rhodes Around Britain."

Rhodes is survived by his wife Jennie Rhodes and his two sons, Samuel Rhodes and George Rhodes. Our sincerest condolences go out to the family for their sudden loss.