Gary Rhodes reportedly hit his head and was rushed to hospital before his death.
The TV chef passed away on Tuesday (26.11.19) aged 59 in Dubai with his wife Jennie by his side, and now his close friend British chef Vineet Bhatia – who was filming with Gary last week in Dubai – claimed the ‘MasterChef’ star slipped and banged his head.
He told the Mail Online: "I have been told by friends in Dubai that he slipped and banged his head and was then taken to hospital."
The ‘Twist of Taste’ star also paid his respects to his late friend and revealed his last words to him.
He said: "I wish I could have been there for him. He was such a lovely man. So friendly and enjoying his life.
"He came to my restaurant in Dubai to film his TV series last week. He was very supportive and a great friend and very generous with his time to everybody. Gary wasn’t the sort of chef who would shout at his staff.
"He was respectful to everybody. And I remember him telling me last week ‘life couldn’t be better.’ He was very fit and healthy and this is such a great shock."
Vineet was left devastated after receiving the news, and he said he feels for Gary’s family "so much".
He added: "I remember when he shook my hand it was so firm and his hug was so tight. This was a man who probably had a six pack and worked out in the gym.
"He was very happy and enjoying the successes of his business and looking forward to expanding. We have lost a great man a great chef. I haven’t had a chance to speak to his wife or family yet, but I will try my best and am sending my condolences. I feel for them so much."
A statement released by Dubai Police said the chef "died of natural causes", and it was revealed he was taken ill "very suddenly" during a break from filming a new TV show in Dubai, where he lived.
Rock Oyster Media and Goldfinch TV said in a statement: "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.
"Production was obviously halted as soon as Gary was taken ill and members of the Rock Oyster Team remain in Dubai to support the family as best they can."
Gary Rhodes ‘slipped and hit his head’ before death
